What Liverpool can do next to sign Alexander Isak as Newcastle reject bid
Newcastle have rejected an opening bid from Liverpool for their wantaway striker Alexander Isak.
The Magpies are trying to keep the Sweden international at the club, but he appears to fancy a move to Anfield.
Despite signing Huko Ekitike, the Reds remain interested in bringing in another number nine this summer.
Liverpool have multiple options to consider following the initial bid
To secure Isak, the Reds’ likely next steps include increasing their offer closer to Newcastle’s £150million valuation, potentially structuring it with add-ons to ease the record-breaking fee.
They could leverage funds from player sales, such as Darwin Nunez, who has interest from Napoli and Saudi clubs and also bank on the £65.5million from Luis Diaz’s move to Bayern Munich.
The Merseyside outfit may also explore a cash-plus-player deal to make things sweeter for the Magpies.
Behind the scenes, Liverpool will encourage Isak’s agitation, as his refusal to extend his contract pressures Newcastle, as they would not benefit from an unsettled player staying put at the club.
However, Eddie Howe’s side will reportedly not be bullied into selling their striker, with Matt Law reporting via X on Friday (1 August) that Liverpool do not plan to return with a second bid.
Therefore, it remains to be seen how the saga plays out.
Liverpool appear to be on the right side of PSR as well
Factors in Liverpool’s favour include their financial muscle, with PSR headroom after strategic spending, and their status as Premier League champions, aligning with Isak’s ambition for major trophies.
The 25-year-old’s tactical fit in Arne Slot’s system, alongside recent signings like Florian Wirtz, makes him a dream target.
However, Newcastle’s resolve and their pursuit of signing a quality replacement complicate matters.
The Reds must act decisively before the window closes, capitalising on the Swede’s preference and their transfer market momentum to outmanoeuvre Newcastle’s resistance.
Slot may consider pursuing alternatives after a certain deadline
Slot may consider pursuing alternatives to Isak if Liverpool’s negotiations with Newcastle stall past a critical deadline, likely mid-August, to ensure squad readiness for the Premier League season.
The St James’ Park outfit’s firm £150million valuation and refusal to sell, despite Isak’s desire to leave, could delay the Reds’ plans, risking a lack of attacking depth.
| Season | Injury | Games Missed |
| 2024/25 | Groin Injury | 1 |
| 2024/25 | Hamstring Injury | 1 |
| 2024/25 | Broken Toe | 7 |
| 2023/24 | Groin Injury | 4 |
| 2023/24 | Groin Injury | 8 |
| 2022/23 | Thigh Problems | 18 |
Slot’s system requires a proven striker, but with time constraints, he may target more attainable options like Ollie Watkins, who fit his tactical mould.
Liverpool’s financial flexibility and need for immediate impact make pivoting to alternatives a pragmatic move if Newcastle remain resolute.
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