LIVERPOOL are again odds-on favourites to sign Newcastle striker Alexander Isak, according to talkSPORT BET. The Reds had drifted to 2/1 to secure the Swedish international's signature this summer. But they are now available at 1/2 following news that Isak has not travelled with Newcastle’s squad on the tour of the Far East. Magpies manager Eddie Howe insisted the 25-year-old striker would “absolutely” be on the plane for the club's trips to Singapore and South Korea after his absence for the pre-season loss to Celtic. But the club have now revealed the player will remain on Tyneside for treatment to resolve an ongoing thigh problem. The situation will only heighten speculation over his future with Reds manager Arne Slot still hoping to sign Isak despite the £79million arrival of Hugo Ekitike. Of course, Newcastle still hope to tie Isak down to a new mega-money contract with sources close to the forward indicating he wants around £300,000-a-week to stay. Newcastle chiefs also remain adamant the Swedish forward is not for sale at any price. Elsewhere a Saudi switch was once a 66/1 long shot - but is now priced at 2/1, with Arsenal considered the best of the rest at 12/1, although their pursuit of Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyokeres appears the more likely outcome, with a £63.5m fee already agreed between the clubs. Isak's agent has also revealed “all options” are being analysed this summer, and that an outcome may be finalised soon. Gonzalo Gaitan told Saudi Arabian newspaper Arriyadiyah: “We are indeed studying and analysing all options, and we may be close to finalising the next step for the player. “Without revealing any details regarding whether Isak will transfer or stay with Newcastle.” *18+ New Customers Only. Opt in and bet £10 on any sports at odds of 1/1+ within 7 days of signing up. Get £15 & £10 in Free bets for set markets & £15 & £10 in Slots Bonus for set games, 40x wagering, to withdraw max £625. Rewards expire in 30 days. Swipe up for T&Cs. GambleAware.org. Please gamble responsibly Remember to gamble responsibly A responsible gambler is someone who: Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressedGamcare – gamcare.org.ukGambleAware – GambleAware.org Read our guide on responsible gambling practices. For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.