Guimaraes has revealed that Isak has been training at a different time, away from the rest of the team. As captain, Guimaraes and the players want the transfer saga to be resolved as quickly as possible, as they feel the absence of Isak, who scored over 20 goals in the Premier League last season.

"We're really missing our striker," Guimaraes said. "He's someone we feel the absence of. We hope to have our best player back, but unfortunately, this is a situation that neither I nor any other player can control."

Guimaraes' comments come as Liverpool are reportedly ready to make a second offer after their initial £110M bid was rejected over three weeks ago. However, with just a few days left in the transfer window, it seems increasingly unlikely that a deal will be struck.

Isak's departure has left the Newcastle squad struggling, having failed to win any of their opening games. They will face Leeds United this weekend without Antony Gordon, who is suspended.