Coach Eddie Howe criticized Isak for being “less professional”

Isak was initially announced by Newcastle due to a minor thigh injury. However, after that, multiple sources revealed that he was making a move away from St James’ Park. Isak even trained at his old club’s Real Sociedad earlier this week, before returning to Tyneside this weekend. This comes as Liverpool offered £110 million to buy the Englishman but was rejected by Newcastle.

Since being sent from Glasgow on July 19, Isak has not participated in any team activities. After the 1-1 draw with Tottenham in Korea, manager Eddie Howe frankly shared: “You have to earn the opportunity to practice with us.”

“We are Newcastle United. The responsible player is part of the collective, who must behave properly. No one can behave badly and think that we are still training as usual. We will make sure that every player must follow this.”

Newcastle close in on Ramos to replace Isak

Liverpool are expected to return to the second offer if Newcastle find Isak’s replacement. Choi Chu is currently in fierce competition with Man United in the race to sign Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig. The Northeastern British club has sent a £70 million offer to the 22-year-old striker in Slovenia, who has scored 39 goals in 87 games in Germany.

Without Sesko, Newcastle could turn to PSG’s Goncalo Ramos, who was a potential 2022 prospect. Ramos has scored 33 goals in 86 games for PSG and was instrumental in last season’s Champions League campaign, highlighting the 93rd-minute goal against Man City. In addition to Ramos, Newcastle are also keeping tabs on Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins.

Meanwhile, Isak’s future remains unknown. Coach Howe confirmed that he did not speak to Isak during the Asian trip and left it open whether he could play in the matches against Espanyol and Atletico Madrid this week.