Where is Alexander Isak?! Newcastle wantaway spotted at former club as 'AWOL' striker waits out Liverpool transfer saga

Per El Diario Vasco, Newcastle striker Isak has been spotted training at Real Sociedad's San Sebastian base, as he continues to wait out Liverpool's pursuit of his signature. The Reds are said to be willing to table a British-record bid worth around £120 million ($159m) and reports had suggested that Isak has gone AWOL from training at St James' Park, after rejecting the chance to join the club's pre-season tour of Asia.

Newcastle had initially claimed that Isak was left out of the tour squad due to injury and would stay in the north east to continue his rehabilitation. It is unclear if the club are aware of the fact that he is in Spain, where he is apparently working to recover from the thigh issue. The Magpies are reportedly targeting Benjamin Sesko as a potential replacement for the Sweden international, but they face serious competition from Manchester United.

Manager Howe has admitted that he is "not in control" of Isak's future, as he appears to be inching closer to moving to Anfield. Isak is reported to hold serious concerns over the club's project across the next few years and is keen for a move to a perceived bigger team.

Liverpool have yet to make a formal bid for Isak but that cannot be too far away. Newcastle play Tottenham this weekend in a pre-season friendly in South Korea.