Liverpool could yet try tempt Newcastle with a firm offer for Alexander Isak - and new comments made by Eddie Howe may genuinely concern Magpies supporters.

For weeks, the Newcastle United head coach has told anyone who would listen that nothing will be decided until the final day, that the skirmish for a Champions League place would go down to the wire.

Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe refused to guarantee that Alexander Isak would be staying over the summer. After defeat at Arsenal on Sunday, Howe was asked about the status of his striker, who is being linked with the Gunners.

If this was a glimpse of a future in which Newcastle United sell Alexander Isak, it was a bleak one. Without their star striker, Eddie Howe’s side are not the same.

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Newcastle had perhaps gained a reputation as a selling club under previous owner Mike Ashley, but the financial clout of the current regime has changed the picture at St James’ Park and astute investment off the pitch has helped them to end their 70-year domestic trophy drought and compete for Champions League qualification.

Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak sent a message to fans after their win over Chelsea at St. James' Park.