Liverpool are reportedly stepping up their pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen's Florian Wirtz.
Liverpool are reportedly stepping up their pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen's Florian Wirtz.
Liverpool appear to be closing in on what could prove to be one of the stand-out moves of the transfer window, and there will undoubtedly be some quiet cheers on Tyneside.
The Premier League champions were widely expected to make a major move this summer as they look to build on Arne Slot's title-winning squad. The forward line has been identified as an area of interest, with Newcastle United's Alexander Isak having been linked with a move to Anfield over the course of the campaign.
That said, Newcastle's stance has remained firm that there is zero desire within St James' Park to part with any of their star players, let alone Isak. However, given the financial might of a club like Liverpool, combined with their recent league triumph, even the most optimistic of Newcastle fans may have harboured lingering concerns about a potential saga developing over the summer.
Now, if recent reports are to be believed, any fears of a shock, big-money bid from Liverpool can be firmly laid to rest.
Newcastle United star Alexander Isak. (Image: Getty Images)
Over the past week, the Merseyside club have stepped up their interest in Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz. Bayern Munich had long been considered favourites to land one of Germany's brightest young talents, but the momentum now appears to be shifting in Liverpool's favour.
Widespread reports, including from The Athletic's David Ornstein, suggest that Wirtz has informed Bayern of his preference to join Liverpool over them this summer. While a transfer fee has yet to be agreed between the two clubs, all signs currently point towards Liverpool getting their man.
That news will be music to the ears of Newcastle supporters, as it means Wirtz - not Isak - is Liverpool's primary target. While the Reds clearly have the financial strength to push for what may end up being a British record transfer fee for Wirtz, they are highly unlikely to be able to afford Isak as well, particularly with other areas of the squad also needing investment.
It is worth noting that Liverpool are not the only club to have shown interest in Isak, with Arsenal also rumoured to be monitoring the Sweden forward. Nonetheless, with Liverpool seemingly out of the picture, Newcastle can almost certainly plan for next season with Isak still leading their line - regardless of what happens on Sunday in terms of Champions League qualification.