Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak is training individually at his former club as speculation surrounding his future continues. His former club Real Sociedad confirmed on Thursday he was “working with his trainers” at their Zubieta facility, with the striker having reportedly told Newcastle he is keen to explore a move away from the club.

No formal contact has been made between Newcastle and Liverpool, who saw an earlier informal approach for Isak swiftly rebuffed and pivoted to sign Hugo Ekitiké from Eintracht Frankfurt. The Reds are prepared to lodge a record-breaking bid if Newcastle indicate any willingness to get a deal done.

After Isak was omitted from Newcastle’s pre-season tour of Singapore and South Korea, for what, it was claimed, was a ‘minor thigh injury’, speculation has been rife as to his future, with Isak having told Magpies chiefs that he wishes to explore his options this summer.