Exclusive: Alexander Isak to stay at Newcastle in crushing Liverpool blow
Newcastle United are expected to demand so much money for Alexander Isak that Liverpool and others won’t be able to afford him and he will stay at his club for another year, sources have told Football Insider.
Isak‘s future has been the subject of increasing transfer speculation as he continues to establish himself as one of the leading strikers in world football, with 26 goals and six assists for Newcastle this season.
Liverpool have established Isak as their top transfer target with the summer window on the horizon, but sources have told Football Insider the Magpies will fight tooth and nail in order to retain his services.
Football Insider revealed on 11 April that Newcastle’s final Premier League position is key to keeping Isak and they are now are well placed to land a Champions League place after climbing to third in the table.
Football Insider sources have now said that, with Newcastle likely to be back in Europe’s elite next term, Eddie Howe is increasingly confident that his star striker won’t be going anywhere this summer.
Newcastle to demand ‘too much’ for Isak amid Liverpool interest
Though Liverpool are still hopeful that Isak will be spearheading their attack next season, Newcastle are set to price them out of a move for the 25-year-old despite ongoing concerns about financial fair play.
Sources have told Football Insider that the Magpies will demand “too much” for any club to get close to their asking price, with Stefan Borson suggesting last month that Isak could command a £150million fee.
Football Insider also revealed Newcastle have been told to pay at least £67m if they’re to sign Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike as a possible Isak replacement, but that won’t be necessary if they’re able to fend off interest in the 25-year-old this summer.
Liverpool likely to move on from Alexander Isak transfer pursuit
Although Newcastle have identified all-action Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap as a possible replacement in the event of Isak’s departure, their hardline stance on his future should see their number 14 stay put.
Football Insider reported Arne Slot has lined up other targets for Liverpool in the event of Isak remaining at St. James’ Park this summer, which looks likely to be the case given Newcastle’s transfer strategy.
Eddie Howe has Newcastle firmly on course for a return to the Champions League next season, and with Isak one of the beating hearts of his team, expect the Magpies to hold onto him with all their might.