Newcastle United have made it clear: Alexander Isak is not for sale, even if the striker wants to leave.
The Magpies’ Saudi owners, led by chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan, have rejected an approach from Liverpool, insisting they won’t part with their £120 million-rated star under any circumstances.
Although tempting, Newcastle are not ready to cash in on their star striker as they aim to compete with clubs like Liverpool and more at the top.
Isak, who netted 27 goals last season, is seen as vital to Eddie Howe’s project, and the club is ready to offer him a record-breaking £200,000-a-week deal to convince him to stay.
The standoff comes as Isak’s camp remains frustrated over a failed promise of a new contract made under Newcastle’s former owners – a situation Liverpool hoped to exploit.
Despite no progress on a new deal and lingering doubts about Isak’s long-term commitment, Newcastle are unwavering.
In a bold counter-move, Liverpool have shifted focus to Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike. Newcastle had a £70 million bid rejected earlier this week, but Arne Slot’s side have hijacked the deal.
The Reds are now confident of securing the French forward for closer to £80 million, with Ekitike already agreeing to a six-year deal at Anfield.
Newcastle’s refusal to sell Isak signals their determination to compete at the top, while Liverpool, though rebuffed, are wasting no time in securing a Plan B.