Liverpool transfer news and rumours including the latest on striker target Alexander Isak
Newcastle United striker and Liverpool target Alexander Isak
Newcastle United striker and Liverpool target Alexander Isak(Image: Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)
Liverpool target Alexander Isak reportedly informed Newcastle United on three separate occasions that the 2024/25 season would be his final one at St James’ Park, if the latest rumours are to be believed.
The Reds remain interested in the Sweden international, having seen a £110 million bid rejected by their North East counterparts earlier this month. Echo Sport reported at the time that Liverpool considered returning with a second bid futile, given the swiftness and clarity of Newcastle’s initial rejection, and will only re-enter negotiations if given clear encouragement.
However, the saga shows no signs of slowing down. Isak did not take part in Newcastle’s pre-season tour, instead continuing his recovery from injury in Spain, using former club Real Sociedad’s training facilities.
The latest update from The Athletic on Tuesday claims the player is adamant he will never play for Newcastle again, even if the club refuse to sell him before the transfer deadline. Additionally, journalist Melissa Reddy reported that Isak informed Newcastle last summer that the 2024/25 campaign would be his last at the club.
That message was reiterated two weeks before the end of last season, and again after their final game against Everton in May.
The Athletic’s report echoed this, though it was caveated with claims that some within Newcastle deny the player ever made such a declaration. It is understood that Newcastle’s stance may only soften if a bid close to their valuation is made, and if suitable replacements are secured.
The Magpies continue to be linked with Brentford’s Yoane Wissa, while they failed in their pursuit of Slovenian striker Benjamin Sesko, who completed a move to Manchester United last week. Other forwards mentioned in the media include Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson, Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, and Wolves’ Jorgen Strand Larsen.
Liverpool, meanwhile, find themselves short of attacking options following the recent departures of Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz, who joined Al Hilal and Bayern Munich respectively. Federico Chiesa’s future at Anfield also remains uncertain, although rumours of a return to Italy have quietened in recent weeks.
Rio Ngumoha has impressed in pre-season, but the teenager only turns 17 later this month. Another attacking addition before the transfer window closes at the beginning of September seems highly likely.