To describe Alexander Isak as a Newcastle United player feels like something of a stretch right now but, technically, that is what he remains.
Isak wants to leave Newcastle United amid interest from Liverpool but the Premier League champions are yet to have returned with an improved bid for his services.
There are only a few days left in the transfer window and, thus far, nothing has changed. Isak doesn’t want to play for Newcastle, while the club do not believe the conditions for his sale this summer are likely to be met.
Geordie Boot Boys understands that Liverpool are set to make a new offer for Isak. They failed in their opening bid but surely did not come this far only to walk away at the first hurdle.
Now, more insight has emerged.
Alexander Isak playing for Newcastle United against Everton.
Photo by George Wood/Getty Images
Liverpool’s second bid for Alexander Isak is not imminent
According to iNews, Newcastle are indeed braced for a second offer from Liverpool.
However, the report also adds that their sources close to the Merseyside giants suggest a fresh bid is not exactly imminent. That does seem strange, given how little time there is left in the transfer window.
Liverpool think it’s only worth making another offer if there is a realistic chance it will be accepted, and the report suggests there’s a “real prospect” the saga drags on until Deadline Day.
The transfer window closes at 7pm BST on Monday September 1.
MORE NEWCASTLE STORIES
How much Liverpool will bid for Alexander Isak
Newcastle value Isak at around £150million, but it appears as if Liverpool do not agree.
Clearly, they must rate the wantaway Sweden striker very highly indeed if they are willing to pay well over £100million for him.
However, reports have suggested Liverpool are not prepared to pay £150million for Isak. With that in mind, it’s reasonable to assume that their next offer will be below that figure.
That makes it hard to imagine the club being willing to sell. Eddie Howe has already confirmed that Newcastle are sticking to their valuation of Isak, although he did not specify it was in fact £150million.
Last week, the Newcastle United manager said: “They [the owners] are being strong on the valuations of players and on how a player leaves the football club. All of these things are important. They are important on this situation and also the future.”