Latest Liverpool transfer news as Alexander Isak and the Reds have been told what they have done wrong this summer
Alexander Isak of Newcastle United looks on
Liverpool transfer target Alexander Isak(Image: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Journalist Henry Winter believes Alexander Isak should have submitted a formal transfer request to Newcastle United. Likewise, he says Liverpool should have tabled a 'proper' offer befitting of his talents as the summer's big transfer saga rumbles on.
The new Premier League campaign has officially started without a conclusion over Isak's future. The 25-year-old missed the entirety of Newcastle's pre-season schedule first with a thigh injury though towards the latter stages it became wholly transfer related.
Attempting to force a move to Liverpool, the striker has been told to train alone whilst reportedly insisting he will never play for Eddie Howe's side again. This included Saturday's season opener vs Aston Villa, for which he could face disciplinary action.
"Two things should happen here. First, he should put in a transfer request," said Winter, reflecting on what has become a tense situation for talkSPORT.
"I know [he wouldn’t do that] but why does he deserve a loyalty bonus or any financial recompense from Newcastle United when he’s halfway through his contract? Absolutely shouldn’t do."
Liverpool have also played their part in the saga. At the beginning of August they submitted a £110m offer to their rivals, who swiftly rejected it.
As the ECHO understands, they have not returned with a new bid since and will not do so until getting an indication that Newcastle are in a position to, and are willing to, to sell their striker.
Having already slammed Isak, Winter continued to pick apart the Reds' initial move for their target.
The reporter added: "Also, Liverpool should put in a proper offer. £110m for a player like this, particularly in a transfer window like this where we’ve seen fairly decent players move for £45-60m, he’s an elite-level player, which is why that Liverpool understandably want him. Put in a proper offer."
He theorised: "Maybe they’re waiting until after next week’s game but it is staining the start of the season.
"Liverpool have had a fantastic transfer window but I think they need to show a bit more respect to Newcastle United and also respect to Isak, because he’s more than a £110m player."
Arne Slot's side travel to St. James' Park in six days' time for the second Premier League match of the campaign. It will be Newcastle's first at home and in the current context, Eddie Howe is looking forward to it.
"I think it's always spicy against Liverpool, there's a history with the fixture anyway. It's been an unbelievable fixture over the years in the Premier League," the Magpies boss said, previewing the game.
"So we look forward to it, we respect them, and we know how good they are. Hopefully, off the back of today, we are ready."
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