Alexander Isak's potential transfer from Newcastle United to Liverpool has reached a critical impasse amid escalating tensions with Newcastle's Saudi Arabian owners, the Public Investment Fund (PIF). Despite Liverpool reportedly agreeing personal terms with the Swedish striker—offering a contract until 2030 or 2031 with wages around £250,000 per week—Newcastle owners have blocked the move, instructing Isak to honor his existing deal.
Isak's transfer saga began with him opting out of Newcastle's Asia tour, initially attributed to a thigh injury, but scans revealed no issues. This absence sparked speculation that he was pushing for a move to Liverpool, a club willing to meet Newcastle's valuation, reportedly in the region of £120-150 million, with some sources indicating Liverpool prepared a record £120m bid. Fabrizio Romano, a respected transfer journalist, suggested the deal was about 60% likely at one point, reflecting optimism from Liverpool's side.
However, Newcastle's plans to replace Isak hit a snag when their preferred successor, Benjamin Sesko, seemingly chose to pursue a transfer to Manchester United. This complication reportedly made the PIF owners more determined to retain their star striker, effectively halting negotiations. Reports from July 31 indicate the owners have issued an ultimatum, demanding Isak return to training and remain with the club, thereby nullifying Liverpool's hopes of signing him this summer.
Newcastle's manager Eddie Howe emphasized at a press conference that Isak is a contracted player and that no formal offer has been received from Liverpool. The club maintains that Isak is not for sale, reinforcing their position despite the player's intention to explore an exit. Liverpool, meanwhile, have spent heavily this transfer window, and Isak remains a high-profile target, but the blockade by Newcastle's ownership could prevent the move from materializing anytime soon.
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