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Eddie Howe acknowledges Newcastle remains eager to secure new additions over the coming fortnight but concedes: "It's more hope than expectation."
Irrespective of Alexander Isak's ongoing saga with Liverpool, the Magpies are determined to recruit a fresh striker as they have yet to find a replacement for Callum Wilson, who departed when his contract expired in June. Newcastle's issues in front of goal were on show in the 0-0 draw with Aston Villa on Saturday.
With the window drawing to a close whilst most of Newcastle's competitors have already welcomed new No. 9s, Howe remarked: "It seems like the striker market gets tighter every year. Maybe that's because we have continued to grow as a team.
"There's not many players of that calibre to make us better and when they're potentially available the price seems to go up, and then you are dealt other challenges like PSR, how much you spend in the window, the long-term effects if you do the transfer.
"It is not as clear as going out and getting any player. They have got to fit the team, make us better and be affordable. That's not a large group of players."
Newcastle had previously pursued Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo, Hugo Ekitike and Joao Pedro during the early stages of the summer – only for all four to secure moves elsewhere.
Howe added: "We're actively looking in the market. We're working hard to bring players in - more out of hope than expectation."
When questioned about any progress regarding Isak's circumstances on Saturday afternoon, Howe stated: "Nothing's changed. The door is well and truly open but he has to decide what he wants to do.
"We would like a resolution. The ownership, everyone, the players we have, want that clarity. You don't need any distraction. I'm not in control of that. There's only one person in control of that."
When pressed about whether he was referring to Isak, Howe responded: "Alex is in control of what he does. I'm not in control of him."
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Regarding the possibility of Isak facing a fine for his absence from the matchday squad, Howe remained evasive, stating: "Other people deal with that issue. I'm concentrating on the team."
Liverpool is due to face Newcastle next weekend, with Anthony Gordon issuing a firm warning to the Reds after the draw with Aston Villa.
Isak is not expected to be involved, for either side, with his saga likely to rumble on into the final days of the transfer window.
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