Alexander Isak has taken drastic steps to force a transfer from Newcastle United to Liverpool, sparking intense discussions between the clubs. The Newcastle striker was left out of the pre-season tour squad and subsequently requested to leave St James' Park, refusing to return to training and instead following a personal training program at home while Newcastle considers his future[1].
Liverpool, Premier League champions, are the frontrunners in signing Isak, although Al-Hilal have also shown interest. However, Newcastle value Isak highly, reportedly demanding around £150 million for his transfer, reflecting his pivotal role and his three remaining years on contract[1][3]. The Magpies are also reportedly aware that Isak would require a substantial weekly wage of about £300,000 to renew his contract, which seems unlikely given his transfer ambitions[1].
Liverpool’s pursuit of Isak is part of a broader strategy to future-proof their squad beyond the current season. Despite their already massive summer spending of approximately £270 million on players like Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez, and Jeremie Frimpong, Liverpool’s hierarchy views Isak as a cornerstone for the next five years. The club envisages Isak as potentially the next Mohamed Salah, intending for the two to play together initially before Isak eventually takes the leading role in attack[2].
The ambitious Liverpool offer, which could push their total transfer spending beyond £400 million since last season, signals their financial strength and commitment to securing top talent. Newcastle’s manager Eddie Howe has acknowledged that Isak’s future is beyond his control given the player’s status and contractual leverage[3]. The Magpies appear prepared to entertain bids, making a breakthrough in negotiations plausible soon[4].