Isak absent from Newcastle squad at Celtic as Liverpool links intensify

The Swedish striker, 25, did not feature in what was the Magpies' opening pre-season fixture against the reigning Scottish champions at Parkhead.

His omission comes just days after Newcastle reportedly turned down a £120 million approach from Liverpool.

Club sources suggest the board remains fully supportive of Eddie Howe's desire to retain the forward, who remains a central figure in the team's plans ahead of the new campaign.

Despite their firm stance, Isak's absence will likely add fuel to ongoing speculation, with Liverpool believed to be exploring attacking reinforcements this summer. Newcastle have yet to comment officially on the player's non-involvement in the friendly against Celtic.