Liverpool are reportedly ready to break the British transfer record for Newcastle United star Alexander Isak, but Eddie Howe already has his replacement lined up.
It is a move that will upset many fans, but one that could happen this summer if the price is right. Newcastle United are adamant that Alexander Isak is not for sale, but they could be forced to accept an approach later in the transfer window if the price is right.
Recent reports have stated that Liverpool are ready to bid around £120m for Isak, but it is believed that offer will be rebuffed by Newcastle, who are eager to get at least £150m for their star striker.
Upon hearing the news, Newcastle fans will only accept over £150m for Isak, showing how much they value him on Tyneside. Despite Liverpool’s interest, Newcastle want to give Isak a new contract to ensure his value remains high, and clubs like Liverpool cool their interest.
Newcastle have met Isak’s demands thanks to their qualification to the Champions League next season, so the club have the advantage in talks.
While Newcastle are eager to keep Isak, they already have a backup plan in place if the Swedish international leaves the club.
Brighton forward Joao Pedro warms up ahead of playing against West Ham United in the Premier League.
Photo by MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Newcastle United in talks for Joao Pedro amid Alexander Isak update
With a big summer in the pipeline, selling Isak would give Newcastle a much bigger budget to improve the starting XI and find a replacement for him. However, many are hoping that it does not come to that, and Eddie Howe can still make the team of his dreams with Isak in there as well.
It is worth noting that Newcastle are very eager to keep Isak at the club, and the 25-year-old has gone on record to say that he is happy on Tyneside and is eager to bring more success in the future.
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However, if it is the case that Newcastle sell Isak, they are already in talks to sign Joao Pedro from Brighton.
The 23-year-old has told his teammates that he is ready to leave the Seagulls after signing in 2023, and it Newcastle is expected to be the club that he joins next (Si Phllips).
Newcastle think Pedro will cost around £60m, the same fee Brighton are looking to sell him for and one they can afford to spend this summer. Howe wanted Pedro to partner Isak at Newcastle next season due to his ability to play as a shadow striker and create chances for his teammates.
Newcastle United called off Joao Pedro deal for Alexander Isak in 2022
With a deal advancing, the stars appear to have aligned with Pedro and Newcastle. However, he could have completed a move to the Magpies three years ago.
In 2022, it was reported that Newcastle had agreed a deal with Watford for Pedro in the region of £35m. However, the deal broke down when Newcastle were handed the opportunity to sign Isak that same summer.
2024/25 Premier League statistics Joao Pedro
Appearances 27
Minutes 1,953
Goals 10
Assists 6
It worked out in the end for Pedro, who joined Brighton a year later, but the failed move still got to him.
In a 2023 interview, Pedro admitted he was upset when the Newcastle move broke down, claiming that he was ready for a change. At Brighton, Pedro has shown why he deserves the move to Tyneside and the chance to impress in the Champions League next season.
With talks advancing, Pedro could be crying tears of joy rather than agony over a move to Newcastle this summer.