Newcastle United lost out on Hugo Ekitike to Liverpool, and to add insult to that transfer injury, Liverpool might also end up with Alexander Isak, too! Newcastle’s leading goalscorer sure seems to be trying to force a move to the Premier League champions, leaving the Magpies in desperate need of a striker ... or two.

Eddie Howe fielded eight questions on the striker during Saturday's 15-minute press conference. The situation is beyond a distraction now

Just how good is Alexander Isak? Can the Magpies compete on all fronts without him? Would paying the Swede upset the Newcastle project?

There’s reason for hope, though. “Newcastle are targeting RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Sesko, who has been linked with several European clubs this summer,” suggests the club has its eyes on top-tier talent. Sesko is dynamic, raw, and full of upside. If paired with a player like Larsen, the duo could even rival Isak’s individual impact.

According to reports, Liverpool 'could force Newcastle United's hand' on selling Alexander Isak with one significant factor.

Newcastle's latest pre-season defeat at least brought some positives. There was no Isak again but Elanga is off the mark

SPORT.com has all the latest news, updates, views and reaction from around the footballing world. Alexander Isak has shocked Newcastle United by informing the club he wants to explore a move

Brentford striker Yoane Wissa is determined to join United this summer, as speculation surrounding Alexander Isak's move to Liverpool rumbles on.