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Liverpool's pursuit of Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak has entered a tense phase as Newcastle’s board have firmly refused to sell the 25-year-old Sweden international this summer. Despite Isak expressing a desire to leave, Newcastle owners have blocked any transfer, leading to rising friction at St James’ Park, where Isak is currently training separately from the team. This refusal is seen as a statement of defiance by Newcastle's Saudi owners, rejecting Liverpool’s interest outright[1].

Liverpool initially made an opening bid of £110 million for Isak, but Newcastle reportedly value the player at around £150 million, a figure Liverpool are unlikely to meet. Paul Joyce commented that Liverpool are ready to spend large sums but may stop short of Newcastle’s valuation, especially given Newcastle’s struggles to secure a replacement striker following their failure to sign Benjamin Sesko, who joined Manchester United instead. This has complicated potential negotiations, as Newcastle appear reluctant to sell their key forward without having replacements lined up[2].

Amid this stalemate, Newcastle are close to signing Brentford forward Yoane Wissa for around £35 million, a move which could pave the way for Liverpool to renew their attempt for Isak. Wissa has shown interest in the move and Newcastle’s recruitment of attacking reinforcements signals efforts to resolve the striker dilemma. Liverpool are also monitoring other options, including Brentford’s Wissa as a backup plan and PSG winger Bradley Barcola, should their Isak pursuit falter[3][4][5].

The situation remains dynamic, with Liverpool keen to secure a top-class forward before the Premier League season starts. Newcastle’s unwillingness to sell Isak has caused acrimony, with the player refusing to accept the club’s stance, which suggests he may be sidelined until his attitude aligns with the club’s position. Liverpool's strategy appears to involve waiting for Newcastle to secure reinforcements or deciding on alternative targets if the Isak transfer cannot proceed[1][2][3][4][5].

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