Alexander Isak Eyes Newcastle Exit as Liverpool Plot Record-Breaking Transfer
Liverpool could be poised to smash the British transfer record in their pursuit of Newcastle United’s star striker Alexander Isak, who has reportedly expressed his desire to leave St. James’ Park this summer.
According to multiple reports, the 25-year-old Swedish international has informed Newcastle’s management that he wants to explore opportunities elsewhere, putting Premier League champions Liverpool on high alert. The Reds are believed to be considering a staggering £150 million bid — a potential British record — to bring Isak to Anfield.
This development comes amid a flurry of summer activity at Liverpool, who have already invested over £300 million in signings including Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez. Yet, the acquisition of Isak could be the headline move of the window as manager Arne Slot reshapes his attacking options.
Isak Left Out of Newcastle’s Pre-Season Tour
Fueling speculation, Isak was notably left out of Newcastle’s 30-man squad for their pre-season tour of Asia. While the club cited a minor thigh injury as the reason, head coach Eddie Howe later admitted that growing transfer speculation influenced the decision to send the striker home from a recent training trip to Glasgow.
“The last thing he wanted was to sit in the stands watching,” Howe explained. “But I’m confident he’ll be a Newcastle player come the end of the window.”
Isak enjoyed a prolific 2024/25 campaign, scoring 27 goals in 42 appearances across all competitions and helping Newcastle lift the Carabao Cup. His performances have caught the attention of several top clubs, including Arsenal and Al Hilal, though Liverpool appear to be the most aggressive suitor.
Liverpool’s Attack in Flux
While Liverpool initially broke their club transfer record to bring in Darwin Núñez in 2022, the Uruguayan’s inconsistent form and recent transfer speculation could pave the way for Isak’s arrival. Núñez is reportedly on the verge of leaving Anfield after a disappointing season that saw him register more yellow cards than goal involvements.
If Isak does make the switch, Hugo Ekitike — who recently signed from Eintracht Frankfurt — could be deployed on the wing to accommodate the Swedish striker up front. Florian Wirtz, a £116 million signing from Bayer Leverkusen, is also expected to be a key figure in Slot’s revamped attacking setup.
Newcastle’s Transfer Response
In response to Isak’s potential departure, Newcastle have intensified efforts to secure a replacement. The Magpies have reportedly launched a £65 million bid for Frankfurt’s Ekitike before Liverpool swooped in. Newcastle are also exploring other striking options, including Brentford’s Yoane Wissa.
Despite the upheaval, Eddie Howe has maintained that Isak is happy at the club and continues to train well. “Your top players are hard to find and develop. When you have them, you need to treasure them,” Howe said.
However, with interest mounting and Isak’s own stance now clear, Newcastle may be forced to make a difficult decision before the transfer window closes.
What Happens Next?
Transfer expert Ben Jacobs suggested that Liverpool may feel “encouraged” by recent developments, noting the striker’s solo training sessions and Howe’s shifting comments. Even if a deal doesn’t materialize this summer, the situation may resurface in January or next season.
As the saga continues to unfold, Liverpool fans will be watching closely to see whether their club can land one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards — and reshape their frontline with a record-breaking statement.