Liverpool have seen a formal offer worth over £100million rejected by Newcastle United for striker Alexander Isak, according to reports from The Athletic and Sky Sports.
The Reds had previously made an informal approach for the Swedish forward and have now followed it up with a firm bid, but Newcastle have turned it down. The Magpies remain reluctant to sell and continue to value Isak at around £150m.
Isak, who scored 27 goals in all competitions last season, is said to be keen on a move and has informed Newcastle of his desire to explore his options this summer. He is currently training alone at his former club, Real Sociedad, with Newcastle citing a minor thigh injury for his absence from the squad’s pre-season tour of Asia.
According to The Athletic, the player’s preference to stay in Spain during pre-season reflects his uncertain future, with sources confirming his stance has not changed despite attempts from senior Newcastle figures to convince him to stay. The club also tried offering him an improved deal with a release clause kicking in next summer, but talks were unsuccessful.
Liverpool’s interest in Isak dates back several months, and the club have now made their move as they continue to reshape their attack. The Dutchman hinted earlier this week that the Reds were prepared to act quickly if the right player became available.
If we see a chance in the market, we never hesitate to bring someone in,” Slot told reporters. “In the end it’s about quality, and we have already made some very good signings.”
Arne Slot has already welcomed Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt in a £69m deal, beating competition from Newcastle for the French striker. Liverpool also landed Florian Wirtz earlier this summer.
Newcastle, meanwhile, have begun to assess potential replacements for Isak. RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško was a top target, but Manchester United are now leading that race. Brentford’s Yoane Wissa is also among the names under consideration.
Isak joined Newcastle from Real Sociedad in 2022 for £60m and has three years remaining on his current deal. He notably scored in Newcastle’s 2-1 Carabao Cup Final win over Liverpool last season, a result that ended the Magpies’ 70-year wait for a major domestic trophy.
Liverpool travel to St James’ Park to face Newcastle in the Premier League on August 25. Whether Isak is still a Newcastle player by then remains to be seen.
