Newcastle United have got just over two weeks to find an Alexander Isak replacement.
If Newcastle United cannot find one then the forward will not be allowed to leave. It is as simple as that.
It is an incredibly difficult situation for Eddie Howe, with Isak refusing to play for Newcastle as he aims to force through a move to Liverpool. But that will only happen if an acceptable offer comes in and a replacement is identified.
Newcastle tried to replace Isak with bids for Joao Pedro, Hugo Ekitike and Benjamin Sesko, but they all moved elsewhere.
The Magpies are continuing to try, with Nicolas Jackson the most likely forward to arrive at St James’ Park.
Nicolas Jackson sits on the bench during a Club World Cup game for Chelsea.
Photo by Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images
Nicolas Jackson expected to be sold as Newcastle United linger
That is the view of transfer expert Graeme Bailey, who has spoken to Geordie Boot Boys about Newcastle United’s search for an Isak successor.
In his eyes, Nicolas Jackson could be the player who Newcastle United buy to replace Isak.
“Newcastle are still doing work on finding a replacement,” he said.
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“I do think it is significant that Nicolas Jackson put out through the media that he wanted to move to Newcastle. That could be a clue as to the most likely target.
“Chelsea expect Jackson to leave this month. He has been linked with multiple clubs, such as Bayern Munich and AC Milan. Newcastle can offer him first-team football in the Champions League. As long as Chelsea play ball with the fee, there is a real chance he could move to St James’ Park.
“In terms of alternatives, they have done work on Samu at Porto and Strand Larsen at Wolves.”
Alexander Isak situation is ‘poisonous’ at Newcastle United
Isak has not played for Newcastle United all summer. He is not training with his teammates, as this toxic situation continues to cast a dark cloud over the Magpies’ transfer window.
The best solution is Isak is sold and Newcastle replace him, but there are no guarantees that will happen.
However, Bailey is of the belief that Isak will not be a Newcastle United player for much longer, describing his presence at St James’ Park as ‘poisonous’.
“I think Isak is going to go, more so than ever,” Bailey added.
“The situation has become poisonous. Bridges are burnt. Isak is doubling down. We reported two weeks ago that he feels his career is over at Newcastle United.
“Speaking to people who know Eddie Howe better than me, I don’t see him being reintegrated.”