Liverpool’s hopes of signing Alexander Isak may have just been dealt a major blow, with Newcastle facing an issue over his potential replacement.

Speculation has been growing over the past couple of weeks that the Reds might still be able to complete a deal for the striker, even after signing Hugo Ekitike last week.

Isak has told Newcastle he wants to leave the club, with Liverpool seemingly the overwhelming favorite to land his signature, having already made its interest clear after having an approach turned down earlier in the summer, but the Magpies’ stance has shown signs of softening.



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The club left Isak out of promotional material for its new kit launch this week, despite the striker reportedly having been involved in the photoshoot, while Newcastle has also been heavily linked with a move for RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, who has been touted as a potential replacement.

Their pursuit of the $85 million forward though may not be going to plan, with the Daily Mail claiming that there is a feeling inside St James’ Park that Sesko is likely to go to Manchester United instead.

That could have a huge impact on Liverpool’s hopes of signing Isak, given it could lead to Newcastle strengthening its resolve in trying to keep hold of the Sweden international.

The Magpies though are said to be looking at another option, with an informal enquiry having been made for Fulham’s Rodrigo Muniz, while a deal for Brentford’s Yoane Wissa continues to be pursued.

Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins is also said to be on their shortlist, with the England international having also been linked with a move to Old Trafford, while Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson is also named as a potential alternative.

Liverpool will hope Newcastle can land their targets and boost its hopes of landing Isak this summer, with the latest reports suggesting that the Reds have already reached an agreement with the player.



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According to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, Liverpool and Isak have an agreement in principle on a six-year contract, with the striker wanting to make the move to Anfield this summer.

What’s more, Liverpool is said to be in contact with Newcastle, although the Reds’ hopes of convincing their Premier League rival to dispense with their prize asset may rely on them landing Sesko or one of their other targets.

Without Isak, Eddie Howe’s side fell to a 1-0 defeat against a K-League XI in South Korea on Wednesday, further underlining their need to find a new striker should Isak depart this summer.


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