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Liverpool remain interested in signing Alexander Isak despite pushing ahead with a move for Hugo Ekitike, Rousing The Kop can exclusively reveal.

The Reds made an approach to Newcastle for Isak earlier this week, underlining their admiration for the 25-year-old.

Although the Magpies have reiterated their stance that Isak is not for sale, sources have told RTK that Liverpool have not given up on their interest.

Since news of the Reds’ approach went public, Ekitike has emerged as a serious target for Liverpool.

However, RTK understands that Liverpool could, in theory, sign both Ekitike and Isak, with a move for the Frenchman not an indication that the chase for Isak is over.

Ultimately, Liverpool are understood to see Isak’s future as being ‘in play’ until the Sweden international signs a new contract with Newcastle.

Photo by Alex Livesey – Danehouse/Getty Images

Although there has been some suggestion that Liverpool’s approach to Newcastle was nothing more than a tactic designed to unsettle Isak, sources have dismissed these claims.

Liverpool and Newcastle are understood to have an excellent relationship, with Eddie Howe and Richard Hughes in particular known to be close friends.

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Instead, it is understood that the Reds genuinely intend to follow up their approach with a formal offer, should the right encouragement arrive.

And RTK have been told that while Liverpool would still love to sign Isak this summer, they are prepared to maintain their stance until whichever point Isak commits his future to Newcastle.

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The Magpies are understood to be working on a new contract for their No.

14, and the likelihood remains that if Newcastle are willing to meet Isak’s demands, he will sign a new deal at St James’ Park.

However, it remains to be seen whether Newcastle are willing to break their wage structure to the extent it would currently take to keep Isak at the club.

In the meantime, Liverpool are expected to keep tabs on the situation regardless of other incoming additions.

Although Liverpool have not left the table for Isak, it is understood that it remains a very difficult deal for the Reds to do.

Newcastle are especially determined to keep the striker this summer, and a move will only become possible should Isak make it clear that he wants to move on.

Nevertheless, Liverpool intend to remain in the picture for Isak until he pens fresh terms on Tyneside.

As a result, sources have told RTK that should he head into the final two years of his contract next summer, Liverpool may make another approach in 12 months’ time.

In the meantime, Newcastle are understood to remain confident of keeping the Swede.
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