No deal: Newcastle’s Saudi owners have told Alexander Isak that he will not be allowed to join Liverpool this summer
Newcastle’s Saudi owners have decided Isak will not be allowed to move to Anfield this summer and fresh reports say Liverpool have now backed away from the transfer.
Liverpool are also said to have identified a new striker target as an alternative transfer option, having been made been made aware of Newcastle’s refusal to consider a sale when they had a bid worth around £110million rejected last week.
Telegraph Sport report that Newcastle have put their foot down and that they are unlikely to change their stance.
Going nowhere: Alexander Isak’s hopes of joining Liverpool look to be over
The DR Congo striker has been linked with a move to Newcastle and has been trying to force through a move to St James’ Park.
After flying home from early from Brentford’s pre-season training camp Portugal last month, Wissa has returned to first-team training at the Bees following constructive talks with their new head coach Keith Andrews.
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But they are ready to continue their spending and are still being linked with a move for Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi.
Newcastle’s Saudi owners are adopting a high-risk approach over Isak, with Eddie Howe left having to smooth things over with the Sweden striker.
Howe has been ordered Isak to train away from the Newcastle squad with just a week until the new season starts.
Speaking after Friday 2-2 friendly draw with Espanyol at St James’ Park, Howe said it was “clear” that he “can’t involve” Isak as things stand.