Liverpool have set their sights on Alexander Isak - and Newcastle's Swedish forward has already previously expressed his admiration for Anfield. Despite only a handful of appearances in Liverpool since his 2022 move to England, Isak has fond memories, notably scoring during one of his early games at Anfield. The Reds are reportedly gearing up for a record-breaking bid to snatch the striker from Newcastle.
After splashing out over £200million this summer, Liverpool are believed to be ready to push the boat out further and test Newcastle's stance with an offer that could hit the £130m mark. Isak has not publicly sought a move away from the Magpies, but Liverpool's interest could potentially sway him. Although he has a long-term contract at St James' Park, the prospect of a transfer remains given they would offer him the chance to regularly compete for trophies.
Should Liverpool proceed, it would mean breaking the British transfer record again shortly after acquiring Florian Wirtz. Isak's own words, from an interview last year about playing at St James' Park, might give Liverpool hope.
He said: "There are not many places like St James' Park. The atmosphere is very special and I think you can judge a stadium, not just on the atmosphere but how difficult it is to come as an away team. It's a special place. I think people have a hard time coming to the stadium."
"I'd say Anfield is probably up there as well. The atmosphere is really good - it's probably the toughest away game."
Newcastle have been adamant that their star players are not on the market, a stance that has been reinforced by a successful season that saw them lift silverware and secure a spot in the Champions League.
Despite past rumours linking Isak, Anthony Gordon, and Bruno Guimaraes with exits, the club is determined to keep its core intact while aiming to enhance the squad, as evidenced by their interest in Hugo Ekitike.
However, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has refrained from making any promises regarding the future of his team. In May, he acknowledged the uncertainty, saying: "I never make those guarantees about any player. It's not to do with Alex's future, I'd be foolish to sit here and do anything like that.