On the dawn of their first Premier League game of the season, Newcastle United are now reportedly “planning” a breakthrough to sign the attacking reinforcement that they’ve been craving.

Howe provides fresh Isak update

Whilst Newcastle’s fortunes are beginning to turn around following the arrival of Malick Thiaw and agreement to sign Jacob Ramsey from Aston Villa, the Alexander Isak saga continues to cast a concerning cloud over their summer business. As things stand, he remains a Newcastle player, but whether the Swede features for the Magpies again is another question entirely.

Eddie Howe confirmed the news that the forward won’t be playing a part in Newcastle’s opening game against Aston Villa this weekend, telling reporters: “We do [have to forget about Isak] – he’s not here with us.

“We have to focus on who is here and get the best out of them. The players are aware he’s not here, the focus will be on each player playing to the best of their ability. I want him to play. I want him to train. I’ve had those conversations [with Isak] but the details of those will remain private.

He's like Isak & Wood: Newcastle have explored move to sign £65m PL striker

Newcastle United turn to Scandinavian striker amid Alexander Isak saga fallout

1 ByWill Miller

“There is no change to the situation. All my focus has been on the training, Aston Villa and the transfer front in terms of getting players in – that is all-consuming for me. Alex’s situation has been unchanged for a while and that will continue to be the case.”

It’s a saga which could yet feature several more twists and turns this month, but Newcastle’s biggest focus should remain set on finding an attacking reinforcement with or without Isak.

Newcastle now "planning" Wissa breakthrough

According to Fabrizio Romano, Newcastle are now “planning” a breakthrough to sign Yoane Wissa this month following Brentford’s deal to welcome his replacement, Dango Ouattara. The Magpies should now have a clear run towards the forward, who – like Isak – is not even with his squad ahead of this weekend’s Premier League opener.

With just a couple of weeks remaining until the transfer window slams shut, PIF will be keen to get their priority deal done at long last and welcome Wissa into the Newcastle side.

In Isak’s absence, the forward will instantly have an important role to play. Having been described as an “amazing” player by new Brentford boss Keith Andrews off the back of a 19-goal campaign last time out, however, Wissa is capable of stepping up at St James’ Park.

From a summer of rejection, Newcastle look destined to welcome Ramsey and now Wissa to join Thiaw in a late, much-needed haul.