Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has revealed that Alexander Isak will not feature for his side against Liverpool on Monday, with the striker still pushing to complete a move to Anfield.

Howe admitted “it seems like [the saga] is nearing its conclusion, or it will be resolved quite soon.” Liverpool has already had one bid rejected, while Newcastle has so far struggled to find a proper replacement.

Earlier this week, Isak claimed Newcastle had gone back on promises made to him at the start of the summer. That statement appeared a last-ditch attempt to force an exit with under two weeks of the window remaining.

“[Isak’s online post] was a sad situation,” Howe explained. “Ideally, these issues would not be made public. They are far better handled privately.

“But circumstances demanded it (regarding Newcastle’s response). The club spoke, and rightly so in that instance. He remains under contract. He is our player.

“My hope was to have him playing with us on Monday night. He won’t, which is disappointing. But absolutely, I want him back in a Newcastle shirt.

“It is frustrating that I must talk about this so much, taking attention away from football. The squad have managed to shut out the noise well. But the distraction is there, and it is unfortunate we find ourselves in this situation.”

Howe also admitted he held discussions with Isak earlier in the summer after the striker suggested recent promises had not been honoured. Still, he refused to reveal details, stressing that those talks should remain private.

This article includes affiliate links, and we may earn a commission from any sales generated through them. Learn more

“There are always two sides to any story. Let’s see where things stand in a week’s time. Hopefully, I’ll be working with him again.”

Liverpool visit Newcastle on Monday, by which stage only one week of the window will remain. Anthony Gordon is likely to lead the line as the Magpies’ centre-forward in Isak’s absence.

Howe additionally confirmed that summer arrival Jacob Ramsey may play a part. “He’ll be available,” Howe said. “We still have sessions left before the match, but he looks sharp and has been excellent. Technically strong, very smart, and I believe he’ll bring plenty to the team. He has outstanding attributes.”