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Liverpool's formal approach to sign Alexander Isak from Newcastle is being viewed as a 'deliberate ploy' to unsettle the striker, after the club clarified that he was not for sale.

On Tuesday, Liverpool contacted Newcastle regarding Isak to enquire about his availability.

Newcastle has stood firm and declared that Isak is not for sale, but Liverpool is keen to discuss a record bid for the 25-year-old.

Newcastle has also been in talks to sign Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike, but a $93 million bid for the 23-year-old was rejected on Tuesday.

Rather than simply balance the books, Liverpool made it clear to Newcastle that it was ready to sign Isak.

As things stand, Liverpool's reported attempt to unsettle Isak has been unsuccessful, as the striker hasn't asked to leave Newcastle.

However, Liverpool could also attempt to hijack a deal for Ekitike if Isak is unavailable.

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Liverpool could attempt to sign Hugo Ekitike if Isak isn't for sale.

However, if any deal for Isak is shut down, Liverpool will then rival Newcastle for Ekitike.

Either way, Newcastle's plans to retain Isak and pair him with Ekitike have been disrupted
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