'Isak will not play against Liverpool' – Eddie Howe confirms Swedish star absence for crucial clash

This confirms he will not be in the Magpies' squad for their home game against Liverpool on Monday.

The Merseyside club is reportedly keen on the Swede, who is seemingly doing everything possible to force a move to Anfield.

Earlier in the week, Isak released a statement accusing Newcastle of broken promises and declared that a parting of ways would be the best outcome for all parties.

The club has denied these allegations, insisting that the conditions for the striker's departure have not been met. It is rumoured that Liverpool are preparing a new £130 million offer, which will be submitted after Monday's match.

Ahead of Liverpool's clash, Eddie Howe said, as reported by Sportal, "There's no change in the situation. He won't be part of the squad for this match. I prefer these things not to happen publicly because it's always better to handle everything behind closed doors.

'But the club had to respond, and it was probably justified at that moment. Of course, I hope he reintegrates into the squad. He has a contract with us and is our player. My wish is for him to play as early as Monday, but that won't happen, which is a shame. But I 100% want to see him in a Newcastle shirt again."

"There's no doubt how the players will feel—they'll feel the same way I do. Alex is an exceptional player and a good person with a good character. He wants to succeed in his career. It's a difficult situation for him and for the rest of the team. But if Alex decides to come back and play for us, the players will welcome him back," Howe stated at his press conference today.

The manager added that new signing Jacob Ramsey, who was brought in from Aston Villa, will be available and could make his debut in the match against Liverpool.

"We are working on bringing in more new signings, but I wouldn't say we are close. We still have a little time, but it will go by quickly. The team is in really good shape, but we are still looking for a replacement for Callum Wilson. That is the main area we are focusing on," Howe added regarding expected transfers for new strikers.