Alexander Isak is reportedly unhappy with the current state of play at Newcastle United amid uncertainty around his club future. Liverpool approached the Magpies about doing a British record £120million deal but the board are determined to back Eddie Howe by keeping hold of the Swedish striker.

The Reds are recruiting from a position of strength having secured the Premier League title last season but know they must spend big to acquire their long-term No.9. They have whittled their search down to two players: Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitiké and Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak.