Newcastle expect Liverpool to return with a higher bid for Isak if the Magpies can agree to a deal for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko.
Although Newcastle United rejected an initial £110million formal offer from Liverpool for Alexander Isak, they are preparing for a fresh approach from the Premier League champions once a striker replacement is secured.
Liverpool remain interested in the Sweden international despite public claims of withdrawal following their initial bid. Sources now say a second offer is likely if Newcastle advance talks for RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko.
Newcastle’s €80m bid for Sesko was rejected by Leipzig over the weekend. The striker has not committed to any club, with Manchester United also in discussions. Newcastle’s willingness to fund a record deal for Sesko suggests they are contemplating Isak’s departure.
Isak returned to training in the UK on Saturday after working alone at former club Real Sociedad. While the club maintains he was absent from pre-season due to a thigh injury, it’s rather obvious that Isak’s move was made on his own as he pushes for a transfer out of Tyneside.
Liverpool are closely monitoring developments, and the belief is that, should Newcastle complete a transfer for Sesko — or Yoane Wissa, another sought-after target — the Reds will come back with a stronger offer to put an end to this saga and get Isak once and for all in a potential British-record-bid move.
Newcastle are holding firm on a valuation near £150m, but the financial pressure of buying Sesko first could shift the balance, and it’s quite possible that the Magpies end up giving up on retaining Isak for a much lower figure.
While Isak has three years left on his contract, the timing of Newcastle’s moves, Liverpool’s strategy, and Isak’s own position on the matters are making it quite clear where this all will end in a matter of weeks, if not days.