Liverpool’s hopes of signing Isak at the start of the summer window were highly unlikely. Despite being Premier League champions, it was thought that there was no chance Newcastle United would sell their talisman after qualifying for the Champions League and winning the Carabao Cup - beating Arne Slot’s side in the final at Wembley.

Newcastle have the money available now while Man Utd are believed to be waiting on a sale, potentially that of Antony, before making their move. However, the final decision on the matter will be made by Sesko who is open to joining either club once RB Leipzig accept an offer.

Newcastle is facing up to the prospect of losing star striker Alexander Isak, but without signing Sesko, the most seamless fit on paper, life could get tough.

Newcastle United have endured a frustrating start to the summer transfer window with just Anthony Elanga joining the club. They have seen interest in Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, James Trafford and Hugo Ekitike end in disappointment with all six players moving elsewhere to Premier League rivals.

The summer transfer window is about to enter its final month with hundreds of millions already splashed on some major signings.Arsenal have completed the signing of Viktor Gyokeres, closing out a deal worth £63m for the forward who was unveiled as a new Gunner during their pre-season match against Newcastle on Sunday.

Shola Ameobi has been speaking to fans in an ambassadorial role with Newcastle United - and his comments made for interesting reading in a Chronicle Live exclusive

Isak helped Newcastle United return to Champions League play and win the EFL Cup while scoring 27 goals and assisting six more in all competitions last season, and that would be a massive addition anywhere that he would potentially land if he does leave the club.

Newcastle United will have been optimistic heading into the transfer window, but it's fair to say things have not been going their way