Eddie Howe has given the strongest indication yet that Alexander Isak will not be joining Liverpool and will remain at Newcastle United this season.

Newcastle have hinted that Alexander Isak will not feature in their Premier League opener against Aston Villa amid interest from Liverpool. Isak’s future is uncertain at the moment as he is at the centre of a transfer saga after Liverpool saw an £110million offer rejected by the Magpies earlier in the month.

Baleba is back in contention for Brighton's opening Premier League game at home to Fulham on Saturday. The midfielder missed the last four pre-season friendlies with a knee injury. "He is an option to start tomorrow," Hurzeler confirmed.