Liverpool continue to be linked with a move for Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak and may be helped in the pursuit of a deal by former Reds head coach Jurgen Klopp
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.
Former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp smiles
Jurgen Klopp may be about to help Liverpool fund a move for Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak
(Image: Getty Images)
Legendary former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp could play a role in the Reds' pursuit of Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak. The Swedish forward remains a transfer target for Liverpool following the Reds' unsuccessful £110million bid last week.
The ECHO understands that Newcastle would need to considerably change their position before Liverpool make a second offer for Isak. Any further developments are likely to hinge on Newcastle securing a suitable replacement for their star player.
Potential replacements linked with a move to St James' Park include RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko, Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins, and Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson. The Magpies look likely to miss out on Sesko to Manchester United, however, while Villa have insisted that Watkins is not for sale.
But if Isak's move to Anfield does eventually materialise this summer - Liverpool may have Klopp to thank. That's because Leipzig are in talks with Harvey Elliott over a potential transfer.
Leipzig is owned by the RB group, where Klopp is the global CEO and German publication *BILD*claim that the former Reds boss is 'pursuing' their move for the 28-time England U21 international. Elliott's sale would represent pure profit and help Liverpool in their chase for Isak.
The midfielder found his game time limited under Arne Slot last season as he struggled to find top form after suffering a fractured foot. Making 28 appearances, he started only six times and was only used from the start in the Premier League once the title was won.
However, he still scored five goals and three assists during the campaign and impressed his new head coach during the final weeks of the season, with his situation doing little to lower the club's overall value for him.