Fabrizio Romano gives fresh updates on the deal.Getty ImagesLiverpool are reportedly still keen on signing Newcastle United's Swedish star Alexander Isak, with the player expressing a genuine desire

Howe has now confirmed that he will not be linking up with the squad, as the Newcastle boss must now contend with the prospect of potentially losing his star player ahead of the new campaign.

Isak is set to cost a new British record fee, with Newcastle demanding over twice as much as the £63m they paid Real Sociedad three years ago. He could cost as much as £150m if Newcastle play hardball. It remains to be seen whether or not Liverpool can afford such a spend outright this summer, but those funds may yet be raised through three deals.