Liverpool’s Pursuit of Alexander Isak Faces Setback as Newcastle Prepares Lucrative Contract Offer
Liverpool’s hopes of signing Newcastle striker Alexander Isak this summer have taken a major hit, as reports suggest the Magpies are ready to offer him a significant new contract to keep him at the club. This development has forced the Reds to explore alternative options.
Isak has been in outstanding form, scoring 23 goals in 33 appearances and playing a key role in Newcastle’s recent Carabao Cup triumph over Liverpool. His performances have attracted interest from both Liverpool and Arsenal, with the former reportedly preparing a club-record bid for the Swedish international.
However, Newcastle is determined to hold onto their star striker and is willing to break their wage structure to do so. Isak currently earns £120,000 per week, but the club is prepared to increase his salary beyond the £150,000 weekly wage of captain Bruno Guimarães, potentially doubling his current earnings.
For Liverpool, the financial burden of signing Isak is substantial. With an expected transfer fee exceeding £130 million and a long-term contract, the total cost of the deal could surpass £192.4 million (€230 million). While Liverpool can match Newcastle’s proposed wages—given that top earner Mohamed Salah makes £350,000 per week—the overall investment may be too steep for the club’s owners, FSG.
Liverpool’s Plan B: Julian Álvarez
With Isak looking increasingly out of reach, Liverpool is considering alternative attacking options. One name high on their list is Julian Álvarez. While signing the former Manchester City striker from Atlético Madrid could also cost over £100 million, Liverpool may reduce their spending by including Luis Díaz or Darwin Núñez in a potential swap deal. Atlético is reportedly interested in both players, making this a feasible option.
Liverpool’s interest in Álvarez dates back to Jürgen Klopp’s tenure when the club identified him as a target during his time at River Plate. Now, under new manager Arne Slot, a major squad reshuffle is expected, with some high-profile departures likely to fund new signings.
Other Transfer Priorities: Left-Back Reinforcement
In addition to strengthening their attack, Liverpool is prioritizing the signing of a new left-back. Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez was a key target, but his high asking price has complicated negotiations. As a result, the club is now focusing on an alternative option, as identified by journalist James Pearce.
A Busy Summer Ahead at Anfield
Liverpool’s summer transfer window is shaping up to be an eventful one, with reports suggesting that Slot is eyeing a €300 million (£252 million) overhaul, including three world-class signings. Some of these moves could be funded by selling Darwin Núñez, who has expressed frustration over his current role at the club.
With club legend Jamie Carragher suggesting that Slot does not fully trust four or five members of his squad, significant changes seem inevitable. Whether Liverpool can secure their preferred targets or will have to settle for backup options remains to be seen.
