Senior figures at RB Leipzig now reportedly suspect that hotshot striker Benjamin Sesko may end up staying at the club, despite interest from Manchester United and Newcastle. Both English teams are searching for a new forward, with Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee underwhelming, while Alexander Isak could leave for Liverpool.

Newcastle United have missed out on yet another signing this summer following news that James Trafford has decided to move to Manchester City. The Magpies had long been linked with a move for Trafford and had seen a bid of £27m accepted by Burnley for the goalkeeper.

Here are some of the boss' key answers around Isak, his squad's fitness and transfer activity. Eddie Howe wants to keep Alexander Isak at the football club. That is a view shared by the ownership on Tyneside. There is still every chance he remains at St James' Park beyond the summer.

Arsenal complete Gyokeres signing, Liverpool ready Isak bid, Man United target Watkins - Latest transfer news and rumours as Arsenal complete the signing of Viktor Gyokeres for up to £64m

Whilst both Nottingham Forest and Tottenham Hotspur have also been linked with a move for the DR Congo international, it is believed that Newcastle United are currently the frontrunners to seal his signature. Wissa scored 19 Premier League goals last season, a tally beaten only by five players.

A few weeks can make a huge difference in evaluating a club's season outlook, and the flurry of reports regarding star striker Alexander Isak have put a worrying cap on a troubling fortnight at Newcastle United.