Being Newcastle is playing a far bigger part. Hugo Ekitike, Liam Delap and Benjamin Sesko did not turn the Magpies down because they took one look at poor Isak being trapped on terms he was stupid enough to agree to and got cold feet. Big names ultimately don’t fancy living in the north of England, especially if they have other options.

Ouattara is believed to be seen as Bryan Mbeumo's long-term successor, meaning Brentford must now find a replacement for Wissa. The decision has sparked anger from the player, who has unfollowed Brentford on social media, removed his profile picture, and deleted all club-related content from his Instagram account.