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Newcastle defender Kieran Trippier is still hopeful Alexander Isak will play for the club again despite speculation over a move to Liverpool growing.

Despite the Reds signing Hugo Ekitike last week - after Newcastle had also made a bid for the Frenchman - they continue to be linked with a move for Isak, having already had an approach turned down by the Magpies earlier this month.

Liverpool though has been given new hope that a deal may still be possible, with Isak telling Newcastle he wants to leave the club, and with the striker having been left out of the Magpies’ tour of Asia.



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Newcastle has always held the stance that the 25-year-old is not for sale, but new reports this week suggest Liverpool may be edging closer to a deal.

According to Sky Sports Switzerland, talks will soon begin between the two clubs, with the Reds set to tell Newcastle that a written offer will be submitted, with personal terms having already been agreed with Isak.

Speaking to Chronicle Live though, Trippier suggested that he still expects Isak to return to action for his current club, while sending a message to his teammate.

"My phone is available 24/7 to Alex - and Alex knows that,” Trippier said.

"He knows I am always there.

Alexander Isak and England star Kieran Trippier in action for Newcastle.

It's not just Alex; Martin Dubravka wasn't here because of a niggle.

"Yeah, we stick together, I have always said that ever since I arrived at the club, we travel to South Korea and look forward to the game on Wednesday."

Pressed further on Isak, Trippier added: "Alex has got a thigh injury - that is the reality.

"Personally, I think there is no point him coming out here if he can't play in any games.

"He is doing rehab.

Without Isak, Newcastle lost 3-2 to Arsenal in Singapore on Sunday, with Eddie Howe’s side now moving on to South Korea to take on a K-League XI on Wednesday before facing Tottenham in Seoul on August 3.

Speaking about Isak’s future at the weekend, Howe said: "Of course there are things going on behind the scenes.

"He will be aware he is in the news every day and I'm sure that is not easy for anyone in that situation

Conversations that happen with Alex and the club, or Alex and myself, will stay private for obvious reasons.

"We do share a good relationship
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