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Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand remains baffled as to why numerous players have turned their backs on Newcastle during this transfer window.
The current market has proved an endless source of frustration for Magpies boss Eddie Howe. Beyond the ongoing saga surrounding Alexander Isak's desire to move to Liverpool, countless potential signings have snubbed the Tyneside club in favor of alternative destinations.
Stars including Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, Hugo Ekitike, and, most crushingly, Benjamin Sesko have all declined switches to St. James' Park. Liverpool has benefited from Ekitike's decision, with the French striker scoring twice for the Reds so far.
Considering the Magpies are presently featuring in the Champions League and claimed the Carabao Cup last term, their scouting department must be scratching their heads. Ferdinand represents another prominent voice who cannot comprehend why numerous footballers have dismissed the club.
Appearing on his programme, 'Rio Ferdinand Presents,' when questioned about why players continue rejecting Newcastle, the former England captain replied: "I don't know.
"Why does no one want to go there? You know what? The north east, what a place to play football. If you said to some players, 'You are going to walk out at St. James' Park, full house every week, being supported to the hills,' it's an unbelievable atmosphere."
Despite countless knockbacks, Newcastle has succeeded in landing Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest.
Howe was also able to bring in new center-back Malick Thiaw, who arrived from AC Milan.
And Jacob Ramsey has now also made the switch from Aston Villa.
Newcastle is also reportedly pursuing Brentford striker Yoane Wissa with vigour, but it's difficult to overlook the continuing drama surrounding superstar Isak.
The Swedish forward was conspicuously missing from the goalless encounter against Villa, forcing Howe to deploy Anthony Gordon as a makeshift center-forward, with Harvey Barnes and Elanga providing width.
It appears improbable that Isak will pull on the Newcastle shirt again following his declaration that he refuses to represent the club. Nevertheless, Howe is leaving the door open for potential talks with Isak and the club, should he choose to participate.
"Nothing has changed. The door is well and truly open," said Howe. "He has to decide what he wants to do. We would like a resolution. We need that clarity. You don't need any kind of distraction.
"I am not in control of that. There is one person who can control that. Let's wait and see. I have made my stance clear. I am concentrating on the team."
The Magpies are scheduled to host Liverpool at St. James' Park for their upcoming Premier League fixture a week on Monday. Considering the brewing animosity between the two sides this season, the Reds can anticipate a hostile welcome.
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