Howe revealed that Newcastle have not yet received a formal approach for Isak yet and has spoken with him about the situation and insisted the player is happy at St. James’ Park.

Howe was also clear about the player’s value to the team. “He is absolutely central to what we’re trying to do. He’s irreplaceable in many ways and we are desperate to keep him,” he said.

Liverpool are already planning for life beyond Nunez.