Liverpool have made a significant bid exceeding £110 million plus add-ons to sign Newcastle striker Alexander Isak, but this offer was rejected by Newcastle, who value the forward at around £150 million. Despite Liverpool's eagerness, Newcastle appear reluctant to sell Isak unless they secure a ready-made replacement, with their pursuit of RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko being complicated by Manchester United’s stronger position in signing Sesko.
Jamie Carragher, former Liverpool defender, supports Liverpool's interest in Isak but questions the wisdom of spending such a large fee, especially considering the club recently invested £80 million in Hugo Ekitike, who also plays in a similar attacking role. Carragher feels spending big to have Isak as potentially a backup striker does not seem prudent from Liverpool’s perspective.
Meanwhile, off the pitch, Isak has been instructed to train away from Newcastle’s first team amid the transfer saga, adding complexity to the situation. This follows a turbulent summer for Newcastle, which also involved transfer movements such as the sale of Darwin Núñez by Liverpool and ongoing negotiations involving Sesko.
The transfer scenario showcases Liverpool’s strong desire to bolster their attacking options, balancing between major spending and squad strategy. Newcastle’s aim to retain Isak unless they replace him highlights their cautious approach, while Manchester United's moves to secure Sesko add a competitive dimension to the market impacting all parties.