Overview

• Eddie Howe confirmed Alexander Isak will not face Liverpool and said he has held private talks with the striker, adding the situation should reach a conclusion soon.
• Isak has trained away from the squad for weeks and publicly accused Newcastle of broken promises, a claim the club refuted in a statement asserting no commitment to sell.
• Liverpool’s opening offer of about £110m was rejected, and Newcastle maintain any sale would need to meet their valuation and allow time to secure suitable replacements.
• Transfer reporters say Liverpool are likely to wait until after the St James’ Park meeting to make a final bid, with roughly a week left before the window closes.
• Public reaction has intensified, with Troy Deeney urging disruptive tactics to force a move, Wayne Rooney criticizing Isak’s stance, and local polling showing many Newcastle fans would accept him back only with a public apology.