Newcastle ‘to receive world-record’ offer for Liverpool target Isak in days
Liverpool are still considering a move for Alexander Isak despite Newcastle’s stance.
The Premier League champions are not resting on their laurels and are showing real intent by targeting the highest-calibre players in each position.
Having secured two premium wingbacks and a world-class attacking midfielder in Florian Wirtz, the Reds have now focused their efforts on securing a top striker.
Liverpool are in advanced talks for Hugo Ekitike and have previously considered making an ambitious move for Alexander Isak.
Newcastle, who look set to lose out in the race for Ekitike, are in no mood to let Isak leave, but may be forced to consider a sale following the latest developments.
Al-Hilal join the race for Isak’s signature
Newcastle have seen multiple targets slip away from their grasp this summer, and had looked to bring Ekitike in to play alongside Isak before Arne Slot’s side took control of the transfer saga.
The Magpies are determined to strengthen their squad to tackle UEFA Champions League football next season, and have made it clear that Isak is a central part of their ambitions and is not for sale.
However, it’s proving difficult to repel the interest in the striker, with Al-Hilal the latest to join the race for the Sweden international, as reported by Gianluca Di Marzio (18 July).
| Competitions | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Minutes Played |
| Premier League | 34 | 23 | 6 | 2,774′ |
| Domestic Cups | 8 | 4 | – | 550′ |
The 25-year-old has arguably become the Premier League’s best striker, and the Saudi Arabian club will be well aware of the price necessary to change the Toon Army’s stance on Isak.
The Magpies will be equally privy to the financial power of clubs like Al-Hilal, given that they are both owned by the Public Investment Fund.
As such, Newcastle could be set to receive a world-record bid for the striker this summer, which Liverpool would be unable to match and would certainly open the door to discussions with Eddie Howe’s men.
Slot should prioritise centre-backs over Isak
Isak is virtually every club in the world’s dream signing. However, with Ekitike looking set to arrive at Anfield, Slot should divert all his focus to signing a centre-back.
Last season, the Dutch manager was already thin on options and relied heavily on captain Virgil van Dijk, who recently turned 34.
Slot has since sold Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen, while Ibrahima Konate has rejected a contract extension and could even leave this summer with one year left on his deal.
It has become a genuine area of concern for the Merseyside club, and one that Slot will need to address promptly.
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