Newcastle not giving up! Magpies determined to sign Yoane Wissa amid Alexander Isak transfer saga despite Brentford's hardline stance on exit

According to Sky Sports,Wissa is keen to make the move to St. James’ Park, driven by the chance to participate in the UEFA Champions League. At 28, he believes this may be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and is eager to compete at Europe’s highest level before the peak years of his career fade.

Newcastle’s interest in Wissa was originally part of a contingency plan should they lose star striker Alexander Isak this summer. The club had been preparing to bring in RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko as a long-term first-choice striker, with Wissa viewed as a dependable backup who could also provide versatility in attacking roles. Despite the situation remaining fluid, Wissa’s desire to join the Magpies has only strengthened their resolve to bring him in.

Fueling the speculation further, Wissa departed Brentford’s pre-season training base in Portugal earlier this week and returned to the UK. His return was reportedly to facilitate talks with Brentford’s top brass regarding his next steps and to push for a resolution over his immediate future.

However, newly-appointed Brentford head coach Keith Andrews, speaking after his managerial debut, a 1-1 draw against Gil Vicente, addressed Wissa’s current absence from the squad.

"He has gone back to London. It was his decision, obviously because of speculation," Andrews said.

"There are clubs interested, and he felt it was the right thing to go back to London. It's simple, really, he folds back into the group next week when we come back to training."

Brentford’s recruitment team continues to monitor potential reinforcements. One name under serious consideration is Ipswich Town winger Omari Hutchinson. A move for the talented youngster nearly materialised earlier in the transfer window but collapsed due to disagreements over payment structure. The club still views Hutchinson as a valuable target and may return with revised terms if Wissa eventually departs, ensuring the squad retains enough depth and attacking threat.