Newcastle United are undergoing a tough period both on and off the pitch. They were recently beaten 3-2 by Liverpool despite arguably being the better team throughout the matchup, even with one man less after the sending off of Anthony Gordon. On the other hand, the search for a striker hasn’t materialised in a signing as of now.
Alexander Isak’s absence was clearly visible against the defending Premier League champions, with the Magpies failing to convert a number of promising opportunities in front of goal. Eddie Howe’s men had just three shots on target out of the total 10 they attempted. So the need for a prolific forward up front cannot be overstated.
Meanwhile, current club captain Bruno Guimaraes, who put in an incredible performance against Liverpool, has opened up about the absence of Isak and its impact on the team following the matchup.
Guimaraes spoke with ESPN Brasil stating:
"I haven't had any contact with him,"
"We've been training in the mornings, and he trains at a different time, when no one from the team is around.
"As captain, and for us as players, it's a tough situation because we want to have the best players with us. But that's something we can't control
"
Bruno Guimaraes misses their best player Alexander Isak
Isak has recently reiterated his wish to pursue his future elsewhere. However, the club is still trying to change his mind. That said, with the transfer deadline arriving in less than a week, his departure seems all the more unlikely.
Additionally, the Magpies are pursuing alternatives as well with the club expected to launch a third bid for Jorgen after their second offer was rejected by Wolves. Reports suggest that the player might move if a suitable offer is tabled.
It would be a major breakthrough for Newcastle if they manage to secure the youngster, having missed out on a number of other striker targets including Joao Pedro, Hugo Ekitike, Bryan Mbeumo, Liam Delap, Benjamin Sesko, among others.
Anyway, it’s a really tricky situation for the club right now, as they run the risk of playing the first half of the season without an established striker if Isak sticks to his demand of not playing. The lack of a centre-forward is hurting the club’s progress badly. We hope the club finds a solution quickly and sorts things out as soon as possible to get back to winning ways.