Alexander Isak’s desire to leave Newcastle United has thrown one of the summer’s biggest transfer sagas into overdrive. As Liverpool prepare for their Premier League title defence, they are keen to add a high-profile forward to their ranks — and the Swedish international has emerged as their top target. Now, after rejecting a £110m bid from the Reds, Newcastle face an increasingly public and tense battle to keep their star striker.
A Striker’s Stand: Isak Takes Matters into His Own Hands
Liverpool’s pursuit of Isak comes in the wake of Darwin Núñez’s £46.3m departure to Al Hilal, which has freed up both funds and squad space. Newcastle have stood firm, insisting the 25-year-old is “not for sale,” but Isak’s actions in recent weeks suggest he is determined to force their hand.
According to multiple reports, the striker has moved out of his Newcastle home, skipped the club’s pre-season tour of Asia, and trained with his former side, Real Sociedad, rather than reintegrate with Eddie Howe’s squad. While Newcastle remain adamant about their stance, Isak’s absence and refusal to return to full participation underline his determination to secure a move to Anfield before the window closes.
The Backstory: A Promise to Move On
Sources close to the player claim Isak’s frustrations have been simmering for more than a year. He is believed to have informed Newcastle in 2024 that the 2024–25 campaign would be his last on Tyneside, expecting the club to respect his decision and plan for his eventual departure.
Instead, Isak honoured his commitment, delivering a standout season that helped the Magpies qualify for the Champions League. Now, feeling that Newcastle have had more than enough time to line up a replacement, he believes it is only fair they allow him to move on. This perceived broken understanding has fuelled his willingness to take bold steps to force the issue.
Liverpool’s Tactical Interest and Record-Breaking Intent
Under new manager Arne Slot, Liverpool are looking for a forward who can press aggressively, link play, and stretch defences with intelligent movement. Isak’s versatility — able to operate as a traditional number nine or drift wide — makes him a near-perfect fit for the Reds’ system.
Liverpool’s rejected £110m bid was always intended as the start of negotiations. Should Newcastle soften their stance, the deal could set a new British transfer record. However, Financial Fair Play and Profit and Sustainability Rules may see Liverpool structure any agreement with performance-based add-ons.
Newcastle’s Dilemma: Replace or Resist?
The Magpies’ challenge is twofold: they must weigh the financial and squad implications of selling their main striker against the risk of keeping an unhappy player. Newcastle’s transfer activity so far has not yielded a suitable replacement, which adds to their hesitation. However, with Isak’s refusal to fully participate in pre-season preparations, the pressure is mounting.
What to Watch For
- Liverpool’s Second Bid: Will the Reds return with an improved offer before the 1 September deadline, and will it meet Newcastle’s valuation?
- Isak’s Next Move: Could the player escalate his stance further if talks stall, or will he back down if no deal is reached?
- Newcastle’s Recruitment: Can the Magpies secure a quality replacement quickly enough to reconsider their “not for sale” position?
With the transfer window’s closing date drawing near, this standoff is shaping up to be one of the most gripping Premier League storylines of the summer. For Liverpool, signing Isak could be the final piece in their title-defending puzzle; for Newcastle, the outcome will define not only their season but also their ability to keep hold of elite talent in the years ahead.
Down below you can see the official tweet from @SkySportsPL: