It is felt most likely the deal will fully open up once their fixture against the reigning champions has been played, on August 25.
But inside St James’ Park, frustration over Isak’s stance is mounting. His behaviour has become such a distraction that, rather than pushing to reintegrate him, senior figures are now becoming more focused on cashing in and securing the maximum possible fee.
While Newcastle have initially resisted a sale, those previously blocking the move are beginning to accept that letting the striker leave may be in the club’s best interests.
For his part, Isak has remained single-minded. There has been no softening of his position as the season has gotten underway, with the Sweden international still intent on becoming a Liverpool player.
Friday night’s 4–2 win over Bournemouth underlined Liverpool’s attacking firepower - and Isak is convinced he will soon be part of it.
Liverpool’s original £110 million offer is going to require a decent increase, but the forward has been given fresh encouragement in the past week that the Reds remain committed to signing him.
Newcastle continue to insist on landing another forward before sanctioning Isak’s departure, though that search is expected to accelerate in the coming days.
The saga has already cast a shadow over Newcastle’s early-season preparations, with sources admitting it has disrupted their build-up to the campaign.
The issue was compounded by the absence of a reliable centre-forward in yesterday's frustrating 0-0 draw against 10-man Aston Villa.
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