Eddie Howe has hinted that Alexander Isak's tenure at Newcastle United may be drawing to a close, amidst ongoing speculation about his future and potential links to Arsenal.
The 25-year-old is looking for a way out of St James' Park, with the Swedish international confirming earlier this week in a statement that 'change is in the best interests of everyone, not just myself'. Newcastle responded with their own statement a few hours later.
Addressing the situation at his Friday morning press conference, Howe said: "He won't be part of the squad this weekend (vs Liverpool on Monday),"
"The club has to act in the best interests of Newcastle United. It will do that in every situation. It looks like it is coming to an end, or it will come to an end pretty quickly.
"The fans will always react to the way a player plays. There is always two sides to a story. My job is to support him and care for him, and we will see where we are in a week's time. I hope I can work with him again and get him back to his best."
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"I’m disappointed that these things are made public (through statements). They should be face-to-face.
"It's great for you guys but it doesn't reflect well on us or Alex. It was a sad moment for me trying to deal with it. My preference is it doesn't [play out] publicly.
"Everything is better behind closed doors, but needs must. The club has spoken, and probably justifiably so in that moment. Alex is contracted to us. My wish is he would be playing on Monday night with us, but he won't be.
"That's regrettable. I 100 percent want to see him in a Newcastle United shirt. I haven't seen him this week. I saw him last week. When I see him, we speak as normal. There are no issues there between us. It's a difficult situation from both sides. It's far from ideal for both parties. Alex is training later on and detached from the group. We will catch up at some stage."
Arsenal could contemplate launching a late bid for Isak from Newcastle after Kai Havertz's knee injury, which might keep him out for a considerable period. Whilst financially achievable, any potential deal would involve some element of risk.
The Gunners have monitored the Swedish sensation for quite some time, with Mikel Arteta being a huge admirer of the 25-year-old.
Liverpool, who are long-standing followers of Isak, have had an offer of £110million turned down for the striker.
Newcastle have remained resolute in their position that Isak is not available for transfer and have maintained they will only authorise a departure if their asking price is satisfied for one of the globe's elite forwards.