Newcastle vulnerable to Alexander Isak approach amid Liverpool interest: ‘Quiet talks’
Newcastle United could be set to lose Alexander Isak this summer amid interest from Premier League champions Liverpool.
The Reds have enjoyed a highly fruitful transfer window so far, successfully welcoming the additions of former Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez as well as ex-Bayer Leverkusen duo Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong.
Arne Slot can now turn his attention to signing a new striker, while Isak scored 27 goals in 42 appearances across all competitions last season.
Following the Sweden international’s impressive exploits, Liverpool are keen to sign Isak ahead of next season.
Newcastle United hold ‘quiet talks’ with Isak amid Liverpool interest
Isak successfully fired Newcastle back to the Champions League last season, and Magpies boss Eddie Howe wants his star man to remain in the North East ahead of next term’s European campaign.
Meanwhile, when asked whether the 25-year-old will sign a new contract with Howe’s men via the Chronicle Live blog [2 July, 12.29 pm], Lee Ryder reported: “Those negotiations are yet to get underway, but that was definitely the intention at the end of the season.
“There have been quiet talks between Eddie Howe and Isak during the summer break. However, the interest from Liverpool is there, whether we like it or not, and if a bid is submitted, Newcastle are currently not in their strongest position.
“Let’s say Liverpool offer Isak £300k a week. Then Newcastle would be in a position where they have to match or have an unhappy player on their hands.
“I’d love to stand here and say money is not a factor, but players can have their heads turned. Having chatted with Isak a few times, he seems down-to-earth, and maybe he can see what an opportunity he has to become a genuine club icon.
“Walking away now would give somebody else that opportunity.”
Joao Pedro developments are a major concern for Howe amid Liverpool interest in Isak
Football Insider verdict
Even though Isak spearheaded the Magpies to Carabao Cup glory and a Champions League spot last season, he would join Liverpool if the Reds hand Newcastle the correct transfer fee.
| Alexander Isak stats | Premier League 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 34 |
| Goals | 23 |
| Assists | 6 |
The Premier League champions can hand the Sweden international the amount of game time he will be content with, as Slot currently lacks a clinical out-and-out striker.
If Isak joins Liverpool, he has a major opportunity to help the Merseyside giants retain their Premier League title, as well as vying for more silverware, including the Champions League.
Meanwhile, the former Real Sociedad man would prove to be an incredibly difficult player for Newcastle to replace this summer, regardless of their impressive European status.
The Magpies had been in the race for Joao Pedro, who is now set to join Chelsea instead, as Enzo Maresca looks to make further progress at Stamford Bridge.
Pedro’s imminent move to West London is a big concern for Howe, as it reduces the number of potential replacements for Isak.