Is Alexander Isak Set to Leave Newcastle This Summer?
Liverpool’s pursuit of Swedish striker Alexander Isak has hit its first major hurdle. The Premier League champions submitted a formal bid for the Newcastle United forward, reportedly in the region of £120 million. However, Newcastle rejected the offer, holding firm on their stance that Isak is not for sale unless a massive offer materializes.
Isak, who netted 27 goals across all competitions last season, has become one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards. Despite his impressive performances in the Premier League and a pivotal goal in the Carabao Cup final against Liverpool, the 25-year-old appears eager for a new challenge. His desire to leave has been evident, and he’s currently training separately at Real Sociedad’s Zubieta facility, the club where he made his mark before arriving in England in 2022.
While Newcastle United have cited a minor thigh injury to explain Isak’s absence from their preseason tour in South Korea, multiple sources indicate the decision to stay behind was the player’s own. Club insiders say that Isak and his representatives have made it clear for some time: the striker sees his future elsewhere.
What Makes Isak Such a Hot Commodity for Liverpool?
Liverpool’s interest in Isak isn’t a surprise. He fits the profile of a modern striker: tall, technically gifted, mobile, and clinical in front of goal. With last season’s title run achieved largely without a consistent No. 9, manager Arne Slot is prioritizing reinforcements in attack, and Isak has emerged as the club’s “dream target.”
Sources close to the Merseyside club revealed they had already made informal approaches earlier in the summer. The official bid, though unsuccessful, underscores their commitment to land a marquee striker. With Luis Díaz having departed to Bayern Munich, Liverpool are clearly reshaping their front line. The recent signings of Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitiké also signal a shift toward younger, dynamic talent.
For Newcastle, losing Isak would be a significant blow. He’s not just a top scorer; he’s a fan favorite and a key piece of Eddie Howe’s ambitious project. Yet, the club has started exploring alternatives, including Brentford’s Ivan Toney and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško. United were also linked with Hugo Ekitiké, though Liverpool beat them to the punch.
Could Newcastle Eventually Be Persuaded to Sell?
Despite their public stance, Newcastle may eventually relent. Club sources suggest they would only consider a sale if an offer nears £150 million and a replacement of similar quality is secured. That, however, is no easy task.
The Magpies’ financial flexibility is tighter than in past seasons, and efforts to persuade Isak to sign a new contract—one that included a future release clause—have stalled. Senior teammates have tried to convince him to stay, but their appeals have so far been unsuccessful.
Internally, there is growing concern that the situation could disrupt the squad’s focus. Newcastle know that if they are forced to sell, they must control the narrative and extract maximum value—not just financially, but strategically. As one club insider put it, “You don’t let someone like Isak go unless it’s completely on your terms.”
Is this the Beginning of a Transfer Saga?
With the transfer window still open and Liverpool known for persistence, this is unlikely to be the last chapter. Isak’s ambition to compete at the highest level, coupled with Newcastle’s fiscal realities, sets the stage for a potential blockbuster deal.
If Liverpool return with an improved offer and Newcastle fail to find an equally prolific alternative, the pressure could mount. The question isn’t just whether Isak will leave—it’s how long Newcastle can resist the gravity of elite-level interest.
