A bold move by one of Liverpool’s main competitors has sent shockwaves through the football world, threatening to derail the Reds’ near-complete acquisition of last season’s Premier League second-top scorer, who was expected to earn £250,000 a week at Anfield.
Until recently, Liverpool looked set to land Alexander Isak. Newcastle had turned down their initial £110 million bid but began to reconsider after Isak opted out of the club’s pre-season tour, instead choosing to train with former side Real Sociedad as he pushed for a move.
Backed by £136 million in player sales—including Luis Díaz’s £66 million switch to Bayern Munich and Jarell Quansah’s departure—Arne Slot’s team was ready to meet Newcastle’s £150 million asking price. A six-year deal running until 2031 was reportedly agreed upon.
Isak, who netted 23 league goals in 2024/25—second only to Mohamed Salah—and outperformed his expected goals tally of 20.42, seemed an ideal fit for Slot’s 4-2-3-1 setup alongside Hugo Ekitike.
But Arsenal have now entered the fray with a stunning offer, fresh off the £63.5 million signing of Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting CP.
Determined to show Arsenal’s intent despite Liverpool’s financial power, Mikel Arteta is said to be preparing a £175 million package—funded by the likely exits of Eddie Nketiah and Aaron Ramsdale. As the most profitable Premier League club, Arsenal can spend over £200 million without breaching financial fair play rules.
Isak’s versatility, dribbling ability, and impressive link-up play—reflected in top-tier per-90 stats across Europe—make him an excellent match for Arteta’s fluid attacking system.
Newcastle, under Saudi PIF ownership, now face a dilemma.
Though they value Isak at £150 million and are eyeing RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko as a potential replacement, Arsenal’s extra £25 million could prove tempting, especially with Isak under contract until 2028 but showing a clear desire to move on.
Manager Eddie Howe has acknowledged Isak’s “short career” mindset and, despite the club qualifying for the Champions League, may struggle to convince him to stay without a realistic path to major trophies.
This potential hijack is a significant blow for Liverpool, especially after beating Manchester United and Newcastle in the earlier race for Sesko.
Arsenal’s move not only threatens to snatch Liverpool’s top target but also reinforces a direct rival—just weeks before the two teams meet on August 16, 2025.
The transfer drama has ignited social media, with Liverpool fans expressing anger and Arsenal supporters hailing Arteta’s bold strategy.
With the window closing soon, Liverpool may need to pivot to alternatives such as Ollie Watkins or Nicolas Jackson—though matching Isak’s 62 goals in 109 appearances for Newcastle will be no easy task.
