Howe’s stance on unsettled strikerEddie Howe maintains that Alexander Isak still has a route back into the Newcastle Utd side, even as frustration grows among supporters. The striker, absent from

Alexander Isak's future has been a huge distraction for Newcastle this summer, and while the team performed well, his absence was costly at Aston Villa.

Alexander Isak remains unavailable for selection for Newcastle heading into the start of the Premier League season amid ongoing uncertainty over the Sweden striker's future at the club.

Waugh: Howe was afforded an extension under Dan Ashworth during the summer of 2022 and, in secret, he was given another deal the following off-season. That was only revealed in July last year by Eales when he was asked directly by The Athletic during a video call with reporters.

The Sweden international has been nominated for the 2024-25 PFA Player of the Year award alongside Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah and Alexis Mac Allister, Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes, Chelsea’s Cole Palmer and Arsenal’s Declan Rice, with the awards ceremony taking place in Manchester this evening.

Alexander Isak was left out of Newcastle’s squad for its opening game of the Premier League season at Aston Villa on Saturday. The 25-year-old Sweden striker is at odds with the club as he tries to push for a move to defending champion Liverpool.

For now, Newcastle sit in a delicate holding pattern. If Ramos can be prised away from Paris, Isak’s path to Anfield could finally open. If not, Howe may be left with a disgruntled forward, a restless fanbase, and an incomplete squad heading into a crucial campaign.

Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United are all aiming to complete some big deals before the summer transfer window closes. The Gunners look set to miss out on the signing of Eberechi Eze as bitter rivals Tottenham are firmly in the driver's seat.

Newcastle is preparing an 80 million signing to replace Isak and strengthen its attack ahead of the Premier League.

Alexander Isak has been defender by his national team coach who said 'Alex is a great guy and very professional' despite him going on strike.