Liverpool and Newcastle Intertwined in Alexander Isak Transfer Saga
The Premier League’s transfer market is heating up, with Newcastle United and Liverpool both at the center of a complex striker merry-go-round that could define their seasons.
Newcastle Push for Reinforcements
Newcastle remain locked in talks with Brentford over Yoane Wissa, who has emerged as their top forward target. The Magpies have been pursuing the Congolese striker for weeks, but negotiations have stalled over Brentford’s valuation. Over the weekend, the Bees were reported to be holding firm at £50m, while fresh claims suggest that figure has since risen to £60m.
Sources close to the situation say Newcastle will not pay those numbers, with PIF unwilling to sanction a deal at such a high fee. Yet optimism remains that an agreement can be reached, with the next 24 hours seen as crucial in determining whether Wissa makes the move to St James’ Park.
The club are determined to bring in two strikers this summer — a plan that would finally allow them to consider selling Alexander Isak, who has been the subject of heavy interest from Liverpool. Alongside Wissa, Benfica’s Gonçalo Ramos is also under consideration as an alternative option.
Should Wissa fail to materialize, however, insiders believe Newcastle’s stance on Isak will harden, significantly reducing the likelihood of his departure before the deadline.
Liverpool Still Eyeing Isak
Meanwhile, Liverpool’s interest in Isak refuses to fade. The 25-year-old Swede was absent from Newcastle’s squad in their season opener against Aston Villa, a goalless draw in which Eddie Howe’s men looked blunt in attack.
The Reds, who began their own campaign with a thrilling 4-2 win over Bournemouth, remain keen but have so far adopted a cautious approach. Their opening bid was rejected, and they are waiting to see whether Newcastle soften their stance before returning with a stronger offer.
Howe has publicly voiced his frustration at the ongoing saga, calling for a resolution so “all parties can move on.”
Financial Angle: Liverpool Closing In?
Football finance specialist Stefan Borson has suggested Liverpool are edging closer to a deal, tipping the transfer to happen after the two sides meet at St James’ Park next week.
“If you were betting on it, you’d say Liverpool put forward a deal worth about £125m plus add-ons and it gets done after Newcastle v Liverpool,” Borson told Football Insider.
“It depends how hard Newcastle want to play this, but Liverpool are in a good position because the player has made it difficult for Newcastle. Earlier in the summer, you’d have said closer to £150m. If it happens now, Liverpool may have chipped £10–15m off that fee.”
What Lies Ahead
For Newcastle, much hinges on whether they can secure Wissa or another forward in time. Without replacements lined up, letting Isak go would risk leaving Howe dangerously short in attack.
For Liverpool, Isak represents the marquee forward Arne Slot is targeting to lead his new era. With the futures of Darwin Núñez and Luis Díaz also uncertain, the Sweden international could be the statement addition Anfield craves.
As the window edges toward its final fortnight, the fates of Newcastle, Liverpool, and Isak are increasingly intertwined — with the next few days set to be decisive.
