Liverpool's pursuit of Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak has taken a fresh turn, with the Sweden international ruled out of the Magpies' Premier League clash with Aston Villa on Saturday. Newcastle boss Eddie Howe confirmed the 25-year-old is training alone as he pushes for a move to Anfield, but insisted there remains a way back for the player.
Speaking on Friday, Howe said: "I want him to play. I want him to train. I've had those conversations but the details will remain private. There is no change to the situation." The comments come as Liverpool manager Arne Slot revealed the Reds need at least one more attacker before the transfer window closes on September 1, despite the £79million signing of Hugo Ekitike earlier this summer.
Liverpool have already spent £321million this window, including £26million on centre-back Giovanni Leoni, and that figure could exceed £450million if they land Isak for a British-record fee. The Reds have sold forwards Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez, while Diogo Jota's tragic death in a car crash in July has further depleted their attacking options.
In other transfer news, Bournemouth are close to finalising a £25million deal for Liverpool winger Ben Doak. The 19-year-old Scottish international, who spent last season on loan at Middlesbrough, has been withdrawn from Liverpool's squad to face the Cherries. Slot confirmed the need for attacking reinforcements, telling Sky Sports: "We need to have one more attacker at least."
