Newcastle risk transfer backlash over handling of Alexander Isak to Liverpool saga

Newcastle could face a transfer backlash after the Alexander Isak saga.

The Toon Army are desperate to bring in replacements with Paris Saint-Germain’s Goncalo Ramos on their wanted list for a new No9. That would enable Newcastle to cash in on want-away striker Isak with Liverpool pushing to land the Sweden international.

But there are fears among top agents that if Newcastle are digging in and playing hardball over Isak then it sets a worrying precedent for future targets. Top strikers always want to know that if they thrive and succeed then they would be allowed to make the next step to a bigger club.

Isak has made it clear he wants to leave Newcastle, the fans have turned on him and it now looks to be an ugly stand-off. That could put down a bad marker for future targets because if they see Newcastle blocking potential progress then it would be a red flag for some big-name strikers.

READ MORE: Transfer news LIVE: Liverpool agree winger deal, Spurs pushing for Eze, Donnarumma and Isak latest

READ MORE: Rasmus Hojlund edges closer to Man Utd exit after Arsenal absence and club chief statement

Newcastle have already missed out on Benjamin Sesko, Joao Pedro and Hugo Ekitike, who have gone to Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool respectively.

Ramos, 24, is not a regular starter at PSG under Luis Enrique and Newcastle tried - and failed - to get him earlier in the window, but were warned off. Portugal striker Ramos appeared to commit his future to PSG last week but Newcastle are still on the hunt - and yet big names are likely to want assurances.

Newcastle are in the Champions League, have struggled to attract big names this summer and the Isak factor could be playing a part. While no-one expects Newcastle to roll over and sell their best players, they are playing hardball over Isak after Liverpool had a £120m offer turned down.

Isak has claimed he had an agreement to allow him to leave this summer - but the club are holding firm. Liverpool are only likely to come back if Newcastle find replacements and are willing to up their price.

But Isak was left out of Newcastle’s opening fixture at Aston Villa on Saturday and manager Eddie Howe is facing a striker crisis.

Newcastle are also in the mix for Brentford winger Yoane Wissa to boost their attacking options. But Brentford are holding out for £60m-plus and Newcastle have got nowhere to meeting the price. Brentford do not want to sell despite Wissa not being involved for their defeat at Nottingham Forest on Sunday.

Speaking after their 0-0 draw with Aston Villa on Saturday, Eddie Howe said: "Nothing has changed. The door is well and truly open. He has to decide what he wants to do. We would like a resolution. We need that clarity. You don't need any kind of distraction.

"I am not in control of that. There is one person who can control that. Let's wait and see. I have made my stance clear. I am concentrating on the team."

Join our new MAN UTD WhatsApp communityand receive your daily dose of Manchester United content from Mirror Football. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.