Eddie Howe "in the dark" on Alexander Isak transfer

Newcastle yesterday slumped to a 3-2 defeat to Liverpool in the Premier League in what was a hostile environment for the visiting league champions, as the ongoing Alexander Isak transfer saga continues to roll on. What is known is that the club's chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan has to fly in to Newcastle today to discuss a possible departure for Isak.

Alexander Isak has effectively ruled out ever playing for Newcastle again, and now it is up to the Toon Army to accept Liverpool's offer for the Sweden international striker. It is understood that the initial bid of £120 million was rejected, with the club seeking closer to £145 million, and Liverpool are looking to sell players before they can match that bid.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe told reporters after the game yesterday that he was unsure about the Isak situation. Howe said: "I'm not aware of that but I've not been party to talks on this for a long time now. So, I've been preparing the team, giving all my energy to the players that want to play for Newcastle. I think that's where my energy is best."

The Englishman then said: "I'm not party to any conversations that have happened today, so I've got no idea what direction that's in."