Newcastle Striker Isak Expected to Miss Premier League Opener Amid Liverpool Transfer Talks

Newcastle United's striker Alexander Isak is unlikely to play in the Premier League season opener against Aston Villa due to ongoing transfer tensions, according to manager Eddie Howe. Isak, who is seeking a move to Liverpool, has been training separately from the main squad and missed the club's preseason tour due to a reported injury, although Howe confirmed he is fit. Liverpool's initial £110 million bid for Isak was rejected, with Newcastle valuing him closer to £150 million, creating a standoff between the player and the club. Howe expressed a strong desire to have Isak back playing for Newcastle but acknowledged that the current situation prevents his involvement with the team. The club faces a major decision on whether to sell Isak now for a significant profit or try to convince him to remain and sign a new contract. Despite the tensions, Howe affirmed that Isak remains contracted to Newcastle and that discussions are ongoing, though no resolution is expected before the season's start.