Liverpool’s pursuit of Alexander Isak has reached boiling point, with the Newcastle striker refusing to train or play until the club allows him to move to Anfield. What began as a transfer dispute has turned into a full-blown standoff, pitting the Magpies’ determination to keep their star against Isak’s unwavering desire to join the Premier League champions.
The atmosphere at Newcastle’s training base is tense — reporters gather daily, but Isak is nowhere to be seen. His camp believes staying away is the only way to pressure Newcastle, while the club insists they will only sell on their terms. For them, this is about more than money; it’s a statement that they won’t be pushed around in the market.
Liverpool initially tabled an offer before pulling it back, betting that once Newcastle find a replacement, talks will resume. The Reds are confident they can land Isak — potentially in a British-record deal — after already spending £116 million on Florian Wirtz this summer. Manager Arne Slot views Isak as the perfect fit for his attack.
For Isak, the lure is obvious: a title-winning side, elite teammates like Wirtz, Mac Allister, and Szoboszlai, and the chance to lead the line in front of the Kop. But Newcastle’s wealthy owners are in no rush to weaken their squad after qualifying for Europe.
Behind the scenes, they are quietly scouting strikers in Europe. If they secure one, Liverpool could swoop quickly with a massive bid exceeding £120 million. Until then, Isak’s absence hangs over the team, sparking debate among fans about loyalty versus a player’s right to choose his career.
With weeks left in the window, the saga is a waiting game: Newcastle want a replacement, Isak is holding out, and Liverpool are ready to pounce when the moment is right.
