Newcastle are reportedly keeping tabs on a Premier League striker as they seek a replacement for wantaway forward Alexander Isak. The latter is desperate to leave the Magpies and join Liverpool, who have been chasing a move throughout the summer window. Newcastle, however, are determined to avoid selling Isak unless their £150million asking price is met.
With less than two weeks until the summer window closes, Isak has taken the nuclear option in a desperate bid to force a move away. He released a public statement on Tuesday night, in which he referenced 'broken promises' from Newcastle's leadership. Isak is also said to be refusing to play for the Tyneside club until a transfer is agreed.
Now, it has emerged that Newcastle are targeting another striker with Isak yet to be reintegrated into their squad. They have been keeping close tabs on Wolves forward Jorgen Strand Larsen, according to talkSPORT.
It is claimed that Eddie Howe has spoken to at least one of the Norwegian’s former coaches to get a character reference. Other background checks have reportedly been carried out by the Magpies in recent weeks.
The report adds that Wolves have no desire to sell Strand Larsen, who scored 14 goals in the Premier League last season. He initially joined them on loan from Celta Vigo but made the move permanent at the start of the summer window.
Strand Larsen is now seen as their main source of goals following Matheus Cunha's move to Manchester United. As a result, it would take a 'mega offer' to prise him away from Molineux over the coming weeks.
It comes after Newcastle issued a public response to Isak's statement, doubling down on their reluctance to sell him and insisting that no agreement was made to let him leave St James' Park this summer.
"We are disappointed to have been alerted to a social media post by Alexander Isak this evening," said the Magpies.
"We are clear in response that Alex remains under contract and that no commitment has ever been made by a club official that Alex can leave Newcastle United this summer.
"We want to keep our best players, but we also understand players have their own wishes and we listen to their views.
"As explained to Alex and his representatives, we must always take into consideration the best interests of Newcastle United, the team and our supporters in all decisions and we have been clear that the conditions of a sale this summer have not transpired.
"We do not foresee those conditions being met. This is a proud football club with proud traditions and we strive to retain our family feel. Alex remains part of our family and will be welcomed back when he is ready to rejoin his team-mates."
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