Eddie Howe provides Alexander Isak Liverpool transfer update after admitting defeat

Eddie Howe feels unable to select wantaway Alexander Isak despite admitting he wants to, but he remains hopeful that he will remain a Newcastle player. The striker is still out of contention for the Magpies amid strong links with Liverpool.

Arne Slot's side are chasing the forward as their latest big-money signing. The Reds have already had their opening bid turned down for Isak, who remains keen on a move to Anfield. It has already been suggested that the forward considers his career St James' Park over.

But an impasse remains between the two clubs, with a resolution not looking likely in the immediate future. And Howe has confirmed that Isak remains ruled out amid a refusal to both play and train.

Speaking in his press conference ahead of Newcastle's Premier League opener against Aston Villa, the Magpies boss said: "Alex's situation has been unchanged for a while, and that will continue to be the case." Howe also revealed that he always remained optimistic over Isak playing at Villa Park but has been forced to admit defeat.

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He added: "I've had a great relationship with Alex. You need that with every player. I take my part in that relationship really importantly. I have to work really closely with the player to his benefit."

Asked if a fresh bid had been lodged for Isak from Liverpool or elsewhere, Howe responded: "No, there has been no change, all my focus has been on training and Villa and the transfer front." And despite the ongoing furore, it appears that the Newcastle boss is optimistic of having Isak's services to call on for the future.

Asked if Isak could remain a Newcastle beyond next month's deadline, he said: "At the moment I would say yes but I've had no change of feeling throughout the summer. He's contracted to us but it's out of my hands."

Howe's latest comments come following an earlier update this week, where he suggested that the ongoing situation had had a huge impact on the club's preparations for the new campaign.

Where will Alexander Isak be when the transfer window closes?Share your thoughts in the comments below

He said: "I don't think it's been healthy for us. I don't deny that's been a big challenge. Alex, for me, is one of the best strikers in the world - if not the best. To miss him from your squad leaves a huge gap."

He added: "When you have a player that good who is not part of your group, it's difficult for the players to fully understand it and to know what's going on and how to react.

"But, as time has gone on, there has been an acceptance this is the squad and we have got to make the best of the situation. That's always been my train of thought.

"Whatever situation you're in, you have got to find a way and you can only control what you can control. We have moved forward and I've got to say the atmosphere of the group has been very good in the last couple of weeks."

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