Newcastle United: Alexander Isak, Benjamin Sesko – what’s going on?

As well as the issue of holding on to their best player, Newcastle have found it hard to sign others and strengthen their squad more generally.

The club had a list of key targets for summer.

But they have faced intense competition for Sesko, Ekitike, Joao Pedro, James Trafford, Liam Delap and Dean Huijsen.

Except for Sesko at present, each of those players has signed for another club.

Some critics and fans have questioned whether the behind-the-scenes upheaval has played a role in the issues in the recruitment.

Goalkeeper Trafford’s decision to rejoin Manchester City from Burnley after protracted talks with Newcastle over the fee was a blow.

Others have questioned whether the Saudi owners can realise their ambitions to compete with the elite.

But on the other hand, each of those transfers is unique. Manchester City, for example, had a buy-back clause for Trafford and the player held a strong desire to return there.

Other clubs’ legacy of success has also been a factor.

Chelsea may have only finished three points above Newcastle last season, but Joao Pedro referenced growing up watching the Blues win titles.

Manchester United believe Sesko is keen on a move to Old Trafford – despite the Red Devils enduring their worst Premier League season yet.

All in all it is a complicated picture few could have imagined 73 days ago when Newcastle qualified for the Champions League on the final day of the season.