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Liverpool’s transfer window could yet take an even bigger turn as they continue to target Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak.

The Reds have signed four major players this summer, underlining their status as favourites to retain the Premier League title.

If they could add Isak as well, Liverpool would have the rest of the division quaking in their boots.

It is by no means a given that the Swede will arrive at Anfield, however.

Reports have claimed that Liverpool are preparing a bid for Isak, but Newcastle have so far shown a complete unwillingness to sell.

Whether their stance has changed following Isak asking to leave this summer will only truly be known once Liverpool test their resolve.

With the saga edging towards crunch time, a potential timeline for its conclusion has been revealed.

Photo by George Wood/Getty Images

So far, all the cards have fallen into place for Liverpool.

Isak has done his part by refusing to go on tour with Newcastle, the next step is for the bid to arrive.

According to The i, though, that could be where Liverpool’s luck starts to change.

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They claim that Newcastle are ‘repeating publicly and privately’ that Isak is still not for sale this summer.

There is said to be a ‘realistic pathway’ that would see the 25-year-old reintegrated in the squad at St James’ Park, which could be bad news for Liverpool.

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However, there is also an acceptance that if the Reds’ bid is big enough – and if it is therefore seen as the right thing for Newcastle to do – then a deal may be done.

Either way, the Magpies will reportedly not even think about a sale for Isak until a replacement has been found.

A move for Yoanne Wissa is reportedly being blocked by Brentford as things stand.

As a result, while a ‘swift resolution’ is said to be the hope of all involved, it is claimed that the current lay of the land could mean Isak’s situation drags on through August.

While Isak will rightfully remain Liverpool’s main target at centre-forward this summer, Newcastle’s bullish approach should mean they have other options lined up as well.

There remains every chance that the Magpies simply dig their heels in and refuse to let Isak leave.

If that happens, Liverpool would rather know sooner rather than later, and can pivot to other targets in plenty of time.

Of course, Newcastle may see the benefit of dragging things out with the Reds before shutting it down right at the last, leaving them with no time to work on an alternative.
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