Yasir Al-Rumayyan joins striker mission as PIF chief jets in to Newcastle

Our star striker won't be playing, but our big guns will be present at St James' Park.

Yasir Al-Rumayyan is on his way to Tyneside, with the Newcastle United chairman set to be in the stands for tonight's showdown clash with Liverpool at 8pm.

The PIF governor's presence feels significant, not just as a show of support to Eddie Howe and the players, but at a time where matters off the pitch must be ironed out now we're one week away from the summer window slamming shut.

Meetings are almost certain after tonight's game, whether that's to iron out the unsettling situation regarding Alexander Isak's future and/or support the club's ongoing pursuit of a much-needed striker signing.

Regardless of Isak, the club are in the market for a striker to replace Callum Wilson, with Brentford's Yoane Wissa and Wolves' Jorgen Strand Larsen both pursued last week as we bid to bolster the glaring weak spot in Eddie Howe's squad.

Newcastle's stance on Isak's sale is crystal clear. He won't be sold unless the club sign TWO quality strikers and receive a fee close to £150m for the Swede, with Newcastle's Tuesday night statement insisting that our demands have not been met after Liverpool's opening bid of £110m fell well short of our valuation.

It feels increasingly likely that Isak stays, meaning a reintegration plans may be devised soon, but this won't change the fact a new striker is still needed.

With Anthony Gordon set to start up front once again tonight as Isak remains absent and Osula not yet trusted to lead the line, our pursuit of a new No. 9 feels just as vital as the next steps for our current No.14.

PIF presence on Tyneside will hopefully speed up our pursuit of two positive resolutions, with Isak staying and a new striker signing the desired outcome over the final seven days of this turbulent summer.