Newcastle United accepted a £130million bid from Liverpool for Alexander Isak last night.
Arne Slot stayed coy on Liverpool’s pursuit of Alexander Isak just hours before having a British transfer record bid accepted.
Newcastle United unwillingly found themselves at the centre of the summer’s biggest saga involving the Swede. Isak has not kicked a ball since last season after downing tools to force a St James’ Park exit.
Toon fans have turned on Isak in recent weeks, with the club’s away support making their voices heard at Aston Villa and Leeds United. Eddie Howe has deflected questions on the 25-year-old in recent weeks as the matter lies with those above him.
Newcastle United accept Alexander Isak bid
A damning club statement nearly a fortnight ago suggested certain conditions needed to be met before Isak would be allowed to leave. Since then, the Magpies have signed Nick Woltemade in attack.
Another striker was preferred before Isak could be allowed to leave. But already having one centre-forward through the door strengthened Liverpool’s position.
Newcastle - who held crunch talks with the 25-year-old a week ago - have now agreed a £130million deal. The bid came late last night, with Isak set to travel to Merseyside for a medical.
Arne Slot on transfers
Speaking after Liverpool’s late win over Arsenal, Slot confirmed Liverpool are active in the market. He joked: “Quite busy because I have to take a flight at two o'clock. On a serious note, let's wait and see.
“I haven't spoken to Richard Hughes yet. I don't think it's a surprise we are trying to see if we can strengthen the squad but if that isn't possible we are more than happy to do that with this team."
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Eddie Howe on Alexander Isak chants
Howe claimed he did not pay attention to the abusive Isak chants during Newcastle’s goalless draw at Elland Road. He told reporters: “I didn’t hear anything but my focus is always on the game and I’m sort of oblivious to that.
“I understand the emotion of the situation. I said this after Aston Villa, it’s a very emotive period for everyone connected with Newcastle, so I’ve got no issue with that. But might there be a way back? Yes, from my side. I’ve said that all along through the process. While he’s still contracted to us, there has to be a way back.”
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