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Alexander Isak and his transfer situation keeps getting more and more complicated as the summer wears on.

The Magpies streiker was absent once again from Newcastle United’s weekend friendlies, with uncertainty over his future showing no sign of letting up.

The Sweden international, heavily linked with a move to Liverpool throughout the summer, remains embroiled in a tense standoff with the Tyneside club.

This latest no-show follows a turbulent spell that began when he pulled out of Newcastle’s pre-season tour of Asia – the official reason given being a minor thigh problem.

His situation has been further complicated by Newcastle’s desperate search for striking reinforcements.

Their pursuit of Benjamin Sesko collapsed when the Slovenian opted for Manchester United over St.

James’ Park.

Now, the Magpies are reportedly considering Porto striker Samu Aghehowa as a potential replacement, though the 21-year-old’s €100 million release clause presents its own challenges.

But according to the Athletic, the Geordie side had more than enough time to get a replacement with Isak telling Newcastle that he wanted to leave last summer already:

“Isak’s perspective is that, after being informed last summer that a new contract would not yet be offered to him — because of Newcastle’s need to comply with football’s financial rules and Isak already having a lucrative deal until 2028 — he made clear it would be his last campaign with the club.”

“Some at Newcastle deny that this was expressed and believe the forward planned to discuss the situation, including the possibility of fresh terms, once 2024-25 concluded.”

The pressure is mounting on all fronts. Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has publicly questioned whether the club should spend £150 million on Isak, particularly after signing Hugo Ekitike for £80 million.

However, with Darwin Núñez’s £46 million move to Al-Hilal now confirmed, Liverpool have significant funds available for their primary target.

Newcastle’s Saudi ownership remains defiant, with reports suggesting they view this as a test of their resolve against the Premier League champions.

Yet the continued speculation around alternative strikers indicates they are preparing contingencies should Isak’s situation become untenable.

Newcastle face Aston Villa in their Premier League opener on Saturday without Isak, while their second fixture sees Liverpool visit St.

This creates the extraordinary possibility of Isak facing his former club just weeks after forcing through his exit.

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