Arne Slot said he does not have sympathy for Eddie Howe over the Alexander Isak affair – but has revealed that his Newcastle counterpart is the only Premier League manager he texts.

Alexander Isak will not return for Newcastle against Liverpool on Monday night. Isak missed the Magpies’ goalless draw with Aston Villa last weekend as his future remains unsolved amid being the subject of an £110million bid from Liverpool which was rejected earlier in the month.

Eddie Howe has made clear that Newcastle United will not be left without a recognised striker, even if Alexander Isak leaves before the transfer window closes. Isak, 25, remains determined to secure a move to Liverpool,