Newcastle PSR state of play revealed as Liverpool sign Ekitike instead of Isak
This article includes exclusive comment from football finance expert Dr Dan Plumley.
Liverpool and Newcastle United have been locked in a gripping transfer saga ahead of the Premier League season.
The Magpies reportedly bid £70million for Hugo Ekitike before Liverpool reacted by making an offer for Alexander Isak.
Then, with Newcastle unwilling to lose Isak, the Merseyside club swooped in to land Ekitike, who has just been announced as a Reds player on Wednesday (23 July).
With Isak seemingly remaining in the North East this window, the North West club’s interest will have to cool for now.
Newcastle PSR analysed amid Ekitike bid
Liverpool completed the club record signing of Florian Wirtz and have spent handsomely in the transfer market.
Newcastle, on the other hand, have had a more subdued window despite making a substantial offer for Ekitike.
Now, Dan Plumley – speaking exclusively to Liverpool News – has provided insight into the Magpies’ PSR situation.
“If you look at Newcastle’s PSR position and the numbers that we can see, The Athletic ran some good numbers a couple of months ago,” he said.
“That wasn’t necessarily what clubs could spend, but how much could they afford to lose and still be compliant – Newcastle were in that.
“Again, they should be okay, but we know they’ve had issues, and if you factor in the Elanga deal as well, and then another bid of £70million, it is a big outlay.
“I would just get the sense that even if those deals are structured very cleverly and can help you with your PSR compliance, just think when you look at signing somebody now for £70million.
“It’s probably likely that you need to get players out as well to be able to do that.
“Isak is the big one that we’ll keep talking about, but if he were to go, and I know the club will say they don’t want or need to lose him, but if he were to go, then those incomings that you’ve got are absolutely fine.
“But if he stays, then you’re looking at that again, going, right, so now where does that put them with their numbers, and they have been in that okay category.
“You are talking big outlay there for a couple of signings, so I think this is really dependent on what happens with Alexander Isak.”
Newcastle chasing cheaper targets after Liverpool tussle
With Ekitike now a Liverpool player, the Magpies have been forced to pursue other targets.
The North East club reportedly tabled a £25million bid for Brentford forward Yoane Wissa, which has been knocked back.
If they are to land the 28-year-old, then they will need to act with haste, as Tottenham are also interested.
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