Liverpool have been linked with a move for Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak this summer, but they have been warned he will need to take matters into his own hands if a move is to materialise
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Alexander Isak wearing sunglasses.
Alexander Isak may yet be tempted to join the Premier League champions this summer
(Image: Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Liverpool may have to wait for Alexander Isak to take matters into his own hands if they have any chance of signing the Newcastle United forward this summer.
That is according to ex-Newcastle star Geremi, who insists that the Swedish striker has no need to leave St James' Park to advance his career.
The Reds are one of the Premier League sides interested in tempting Isak away from the Carabao Cup holders. Arsenal are also keen, having had the goalscorer on their radar for some time now as they scour the market for a proper number nine.
Meanwhile, Liverpool are looking for an upgrade to Darwin Nunez, who is currently up for sale in the transfer market. However, Newcastle aren't in any rush to flog their star striker, and would only even consider a deal if the offering price surpassed the £150million mark, according to The Telegraph.
Up until now, there's been no real evidence that Isak, who has three more years remaining on his current contract, is actively looking for an exit from Newcastle.
Geremi stated that if Liverpool or Arsenal do want to tempt the 25-year-old away, then they would need to rely on Isak pushing for a move.
Alexander Isak smiling.
Alexander Isak has shown no real inclination of wanting to leave St James' Park
During a chat with BoyleSports, who offer the latest Club World Cup odds, the ex-Magpies midfielder said: "First of all, they [Newcastle] need to keep their best players at all costs.
"I'm not sure Newcastle would sell Isak for any fee, but it would become an issue if the player took the decision into his own hands."
The ex-Chelsea star also suggested that Newcastle have reached the "same level" as Liverpool and Arsenal, thanks to their Carabao Cup triumph in March and Champions League qualification that was confirmed at the end of the season.
Arne Slot, Darwin Nunez and Jarell Quansah
Arne Slot looks set to move on both Darwin Nunez and Jarell Quansah this summer
Geremi said: "He had a great season and is at one of the biggest teams in the world when it comes to financial backing.
"The environment is all there and I don't think he would gain anything by moving to Liverpool or Arsenal. I think Newcastle are at the same level. Newcastle are now contenders to win the Premier League and the Champions League.
"When they got new owners, I said it would take them three or four years and a trophy to put them in that position and now they are there. They are ready to compete because they have been built under Eddie Howe, they have the right finances and they are an attractive proposition for new players.
Alexander Isak of Newcastle United chases the ball during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Everton FC.
Alexander Isak has an asking price of £150million
"New signings will have no doubt about joining the club this summer and I wouldn't be surprised if they have an incredible season."
Liverpool have been proactive this summer, acquiring Bayer Leverkusen duo Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong. The former's transfer, potentially reaching £116m, has already set a new British record for the summer, and Bournemouth's Milos Kerkez is next in their sights for £40m.
For Arsenal on the other hand, securing either Benjamin Seskso or Viktor Gyokeres seems more likely at the moment. A new number nine is deemed essential as the Gunners aim to transition from 'nearly men' to champions after finishing second in the Premier League three times in a row.