Alexander Isak transfer: Liverpool and Newcastle latest over deal

That remains a big ‘if’, of course.

Howe has been consistent in his messaging throughout this saga: the door remains open to Isak.

But the Newcastle head coach stressed what happens next is down to the striker, who continues to train away from the group.

It certainly felt a long way back for Isak on Saturday after the away end called the Swede “greedy” following the goalless draw against Aston Villa.

Yet time is against Isak if he is to get a move to Liverpool, particularly when there are few realistic options left on the market who would be capable of stepping up for Newcastle.

Omar Chaudhuri, the chief intelligence officer of Twenty First Group, who previously worked with clubs like Newcastle and Tottenham, has noticed a “greater interest in top-class strikers” compared to years gone by.

“Globally, there have been seven centre forwards moving for 50m euros or more this window, compared to two in 2024, six in 2023, and five in 2022,” he said.

“But clubs should probably temper expectations as to their impact. Of the 19 strikers signed by Premier League clubs for 50m euros or more before this season, perhaps, only Haaland and Isak can be considered unqualified successes.”

No wonder Howe has maintained that the door is open.

Trying to, somehow, reintegrate Isak may yet prove one of Newcastle’s better options – and that is saying something.