Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has admitted want-away striker Alexander Isak is unlikely to feature in the opening game of the Premier League season at Aston Villa .

The 25-year-old Sweden international was not involved in Friday night's 2-2 Sela Cup draw with Espanyol at St James' Park, and he will not figure when Howe sends out his side against Atlético Madrid on Saturday.

Howe revealed that talks with Isak, the subject of a rejected £110 million bid from Liverpool , are ongoing, but he does not expect any resolution before the season's opener.

- Slot: Liverpool still active in transfer market amid Isak talk

- Sources: Liverpool bid for Isak rejected by Newcastle

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The Magpies' head coach said: "I'd want Alex to be play

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