Liverpool are reportedly intensifying their efforts to sign Newcastle United’s star striker Alexander Isak, refusing to back down despite the Magpies rejecting
The Premier League champions are determined to secure the 25-year-old Swede, who has expressed a strong desire to join them and compete for top honours.
Isak, who scored an impressive 23 goals in the Premier League last season, has told Newcastle he wants to explore his options, with Anfield as his preferred destination. Liverpool’s opening bid of 110 million pounds, potentially rising to 120 million with add-ons, was turned down, with Newcastle holding firm on their 150-million-pound valuation. However, the Reds are not deterred and are preparing a fresh bid, according to sources close to the deal.
Journalist Julien Laurens has revealed that Isak has held secret talks with Liverpool head coach Arne Slot, signaling his eagerness for the move. “Isak is waiting for this transfer to go through,” Laurens said. “He’s had discussions with Slot, and Liverpool are pushing hard.”
The transfer saga could hinge on Newcastle’s ability to sign a replacement, with the Magpies actively pursuing RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko. Sky Sports News reporter Keith Downie believes a deal is still possible. “If Newcastle bring in Sesko, it opens the door for Isak to leave,” Downie said on his YouTube channel.
“Liverpool haven’t made their final bid. They’re playing the long game with four weeks left in the window.”
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano echoed this sentiment, noting that Liverpool are strategically biding their time. “Newcastle’s response was a flat ‘no’ to Liverpool’s first official bid,” Romano said. “But Liverpool know this is part of the negotiation. They’re showing Isak they’re serious, and they expect Newcastle’s stance to soften if a top striker is signed as his replacement.”
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has admitted the situation is far from ideal. “I was made aware of Liverpool’s bid, which was rejected before I even heard about it,” Howe said during a press conference in Seoul. “We support Alex, and my wish is to see him in a Newcastle shirt, but I don’t fully control what happens next.”
Recent posts on X from Fabrizio Romano confirm Liverpool’s persistence, stating, “Liverpool plan to bid again and insist soon,” while noting Isak’s clear desire to join the Reds. Meanwhile, Newcastle’s interest in Sesko remains strong, with a 65.5-million-pound offer made, potentially rising to 70 million with add-ons, as they prepare for a possible Isak exit.
Liverpool’s financial position supports their ambition, bolstered by recent player sales, including Luis Diaz to Bayern Munich for 65.6 million pounds. The Athletic reports that these transactions have given Liverpool significant room to manoeuvre within Premier League profit and sustainability rules, making a blockbuster move for Isak feasible.
As negotiations continue, with new talks scheduled for early next week, Liverpool are reportedly ready to offer between 120 and 130 million pounds, edging closer to Newcastle’s valuation. The Reds’ determination to land Isak underscores their intent to build a squad capable of dominating both domestically and in Europe.
