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Newcastle was held to a goalless stalemate by Aston Villa in its Premier League curtain-raiser on Saturday, despite controlling much of the proceedings.

The Magpies were missing talisman Alexander Isak, whose future continues to generate speculation at both St.

James' Park and Anfield.



Liverpool continues to be linked with Isak, but it's unclear whether the Reds will make another transfer bid before the deadline of Monday, September 1.

Even without its main striker, Newcastle appeared poised to claim maximum points when Villa's Ezri Konsa received his marching orders with 25 minutes remaining.

The Magpies must now seek their maiden victory of the campaign next Monday when they welcome Liverpool for their inaugural home fixture.

To boost their attack, Newcastle is nearing the acquisition of Brentford striker Yoane Wissa, as reported by the Daily Mail.

The 28-year-old has been repeatedly linked with a switch to St

James' Park throughout the summer window.

Newcastle is apparently reluctant to sanction Isak's departure to Liverpool without securing adequate cover.

Following unsuccessful pursuits of Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, and Hugo Ekitike, Newcastle has now identified Wissa as its primary target, with sources "convinced" an agreement could be concluded this week.

Wissa has completed four Premier League campaigns at Brentford, scoring 45 goals in 137 games in the division.

Last season was his most successful in the Premier League, finding the net 19 times.

In other news, Goncalo Ramos has confirmed his intention to stay at Paris Saint-Germain this season, despite speculation linking the striker with Newcastle.

The 24-year-old became the most recent prominent striker to be linked with a switch to St
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