Transfer news: Latest on Alexander Isak, Eberechi Eze

If Isak doesn't move, can he be reintegrated into the fold?

Sami Mokbel and Ciaran Kelly

Image source, Getty Images

That remains a big 'if', of course.

Howe has been consistent in his messaging throughout this saga: the door remains open to Isak.

But the Newcastle head coach stressed what happens next is down to the striker, who continues to train away from the group.

In their statement on Tuesday night, Newcastle said: "This is a proud football club with proud traditions and we strive to retain our family feel. Alex remains part of our family and will be welcomed back when he is ready to rejoin his team-mates."

It certainly felt a long way back for Isak on Saturday after the away end called the Swede "greedy" following the goalless draw against Aston Villa.

Yet time is against Isak if he is to get a move to Liverpool, particularly when there are few realistic options left on the market who would be capable of stepping up for Newcastle.

Omar Chaudhuri, the chief intelligence officer of Twenty First Group, who previously worked with clubs like Newcastle and Tottenham, has noticed a "greater interest in top-class strikers" compared to years gone by.

"Globally, there have been seven centre forwards moving for 50m euros or more this window, compared to two in 2024, six in 2023, and five in 2022," he said.

"But clubs should probably temper expectations as to their impact. Of the 19 strikers signed by Premier League clubs for 50m euros or more before this season, perhaps, only Haaland and Isak can be considered unqualified successes."

No wonder Howe has maintained that the door is open.

Trying to, somehow, reintegrate Isak may yet prove one of Newcastle's better options - and that is saying something.

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