Alexander Isak could yet become the star of a major transfer saga this summer.
Newcastle United are hoping to keep the Sweden international on Tyneside ahead of another campaign in the UEFA Champions League next term, but Arne Slot is lurking.
TBR Football understand Liverpool are ready to pounce on Isak if he gives even a crumb of encouragement to Richard Hughes – Director of Football at Anfield – with the Magpies currently trying to tie their talisman down to a new contract.
Now, The Times have provided an update for Liverpool fans, sharing one concern Newcastle United have over Alexander Isak.
Newcastle United fearful of a bid arriving for Alexander Isak
Martin Hardy writes that Newcastle United are willing to shatter their club wage record to keep the Swede, but are wary of a bid arriving from elsewhere before they can strike an agreement.
The Times do not directly mention which club will bid for certain, but state that Liverpool have enough cash to test Newcastle United’s resolve, and would be amongst the sides set to act if contract discussions hit a snag.
Arsenal and Barcelona are also named as interested clubs by The Times – although Liverpool are made out to be the side in the best position.
Even Newcastle United fans think Isak could end up at Anfield this summer, with Liverpool currently raising cash through the sales of Caoimhin Kelleher and Jarell Quansah to Brentford and Bayer Leverkusen respectively.
Darwin Nunez and Federico Chiesa could follow amidst interest from Napoli.
Furthermore, Isak has already said he likes Slot’s style of play, telling The Shields Gazette before the Carabao Cup final in March: “I really enjoy the games against Liverpool, because I think they’re not too different to ourselves, a high-pressing team and a direct team, which can lead to many counter-opportunities, and that’s the game I like.”
Liverpool have another striker on their shortlist
Slot wants a new striker after Nunez and Diogo Jota managed just 11 Premier League goals combined last season, and there is an alternative to Isak on the list.
Liverpool have held talks over a deal for Hugo Ekitike after his excellent 2024/25 campaign for Eintracht Frankfurt, scoring 22 goals in 48 appearances across all competitions.
However, at this stage of the summer, it feels like the Reds are waiting to see if a chance to sign Isak arises before they make a genuine push for the Frenchman.