With just a fortnight remaining in the summer transfer window, speculation over Alexander Isakās possible switch from Newcastle to Liverpool is gathering pace.
While stars such as Declan Rice and Mo Salah celebrated at the PFA Team of the Year awards, Isak was notably absent, instead breaking his silence on social media. In a pointed post, the Swedish striker accused Newcastle of failing to keep promises made to him earlier in the summer. The club quickly responded, insisting they do not plan to sell their talisman before deadline day.
That hasnāt deterred Liverpool, who remain determined to land their top attacking target. The Premier League champions saw their opening bid ā worth around Ā£110 million plus add-ons ā rejected earlier this summer. Many assumed their interest would fade after the arrival of Hugo Ekitike, but fresh reports suggest otherwise.
According to Sky Sportsā Keith Downie, Liverpool are preparing an improved offer, while Newcastle have made their stance clear. The Magpies want a fee in the region of Ā£150 million, though Downie notes they might accept slightly less if other conditions are met.
The second condition? A replacement must be signed. Newcastle have already failed in moves for Benjamin Sesko and Ekitike, and are still scrambling to cover the departure of Callum Wilson, who left on a free. Their pursuit of Yoane Wissa of Brentford is ongoing, but he is viewed more as a Wilson replacement than an Isak successor.
Downie suggested that if Newcastle secure Wissa soon, and if Liverpool raise their bid to around Ā£130m, the club may be forced to consider a sale ā though it would leave Eddie Howe worryingly short of firepower.
For now, the standoff continues, but with the clock ticking, Isakās future could yet provide one of the transfer windowās biggest late twists.
