Newcastle United still have work to do in the summer transfer window with Hugo Ekitike a target while Liverpool are interested in Magpies forward Alexander Isak
Isaac is a senior NCTJ-trained journalist with an MA in News Journalism. He has experience of working for national and regional news organisations including the Express, the Manchester Evening News and the Liverpool Echo. He currently covers sport across all regional sites at Reach PLC.
Alexander Isak looks on during a pre-season training camp
Liverpool are said to be interested in Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak
(Image: Newcastle United via Getty Images)
Newcastle United still have work to do in the summer transfer window as they look toward a return to Champions League football next season.
Eddie Howe's side squeezed into the top five places last term to secure a spot in Europe's elite competition and a welcome £100 million cash boost as a result. However, there is work to do for the Magpies as they look to continue their rise under Howe in recent years.
Newcastle have so far signed Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest and Antonio Cordero on a free transfer from Malaga. Below are some of the latest headlines surrounding the Magpies as well as a view on each one.
Isak claim
Newcastle are reportedly bracing themselves for an official offer from Liverpool for Alexander Isak which could be in the region of £130m.
ChronicleLive reported on Tuesday that insiders at Newcastle were insistent Isak is not for sale. The Athletic had claimed that Liverpool had approached Newcastle about a move for the 25 year-old.
ChronicleLive says: "I would be amazed if Isak left Newcastle anytime soon. A ridiculously high offer from Liverpool or another team may change things, but he's so important to Howe's team."
Ekitike stance
Sky Sports in Germany have reported the reasons why Eintracht Frankfurt rejected Newcastle's bid for striker Hugo Ekitike.
Reporter Florian Pletteberg claims that the bid failed 'mainly due to the payment terms'. He also claims that Frankfurt sporting director Markus Krosche wants more money for the player.
Sky Sports have also claimed that Liverpool are expected to rival Newcastle for Ekitike after being told Isak is not for sale.
ChronicleLive says: "It feels like Frankfurt are trying to milk every last penny out of any Premier League interest in Ekitike. Nevertheless, I imagine Newcastle or Liverpool will eventually make a breakthrough and get this over the line."
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