Alexander Isak’s hopes of Liverpool move take a hit with Man United leading race for potential Newcastle replacement Benjamin Sesko

Alexander Isak’s hopes of forcing a move to Liverpool may have taken a hit with Newcastle fearing they have lost out on top target Benjamin Sesko.

The Magpies remain in the race for the RB Leipzig striker but, with Manchester United also pursuing the Slovenian, there is a feeling internally that their chances of landing him have faded.

If so, that would impact significantly on ‘the decision’ Eddie Howe says Newcastle have to make on Isak’s future.

The Swede has ruled himself out of the club’s Far East tour with a thigh injury, even though subsequent scans showed no damage. He wants to join Liverpool, who are working on a bid.

However, Newcastle would only contemplate a sale if it was ‘right for the club’ – as Howe has stated repeatedly – and that would mean having replacements with at least one foot in the door. 

If they miss out on Sesko, an alternative will have to be identified before an exit for Isak would be considered.

Deals are active for both Seiko and Brentford’s Yoane Wissa, and we can reveal that Fulham’s Rodrigo Muniz has been added to the shortlist in recent days. Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins is another option, especially if Sesko chooses Man United.

Meanwhile, Newcastle midfielder Joe Willock suffered an injury scare during Wednesday night’s 1-0 defeat by the K-League All Stars here in South Korea. 

He was stretchered off late in the game and more news is awaited, although team-mates were suggesting as they left the stadium that the ankle issue is not as bad as first feared.