By Kwame Bediako
Newcastle United forward Alexander Isak is reportedly eager to leave the club and join Liverpool this summer, underlining a transfer saga that has captured significant attention.
According to multiple sources, including BBC Sport, the 25-year-old Sweden international is determined to complete a move before the August 31 transfer deadline.
Liverpool has made a substantial bid valued at around £110 million, which Newcastle rejected, holding out for a higher fee, reportedly closer to £150 million.
The striker’s situation has been complicated by his absence from Newcastle’s preseason activities. Isak declined to join the club’s tour in Asia after reporting a thigh injury, choosing instead to train privately at his former club Real Sociedad in Spain.
Upon returning to Newcastle’s training ground, Isak was instructed by manager Eddie Howe to train away from the first team, reflecting the tension between the player and the club.
Alexander Isak
Howe has expressed confidence publicly that Isak will remain a Newcastle player for the start of the season, despite the ongoing speculation.
Liverpool’s pursuit of Isak is part of their efforts to strengthen their attacking options following the recent departures of key forwards Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez.
However, Liverpool’s initial bid was firmly rejected by Newcastle, indicating a hard stance from the Magpies who have not lined up a direct replacement striker yet, complicating Isak’s potential exit.
Reports suggest that Newcastle may reconsider their firm stance if a more substantial offer closer to their valuation is made and a feasible replacement is signed.
From the Newcastle manager’s perspective, Eddie Howe highlighted that he values Isak not only for his on-field contributions but also for his positive attitude within the team.
The coming weeks until the transfer window closes are likely to be decisive for the future of the forward.
As the Premier League season approaches, the situation remains fluid with Isak not currently expected to feature for Newcastle’s upcoming matches, and all parties keen to resolve the saga swiftly.
Liverpool remains the likely destination if terms can be agreed, with the potential for the deal to set a new British transfer record.
