Newcastle worry that Liverpool may repeat their patient transfer tactic—similar to how they secured Virgil van Dijk—by waiting for the right moment to land £150 million-rated striker Alexander Isak. Liverpool recently had a £110 million bid rejected but appear willing to delay further moves, just as they did with Van Dijk in 2017.
Isak, reportedly eager to join Liverpool, is training at former club Real Sociedad instead of joining Newcastle’s pre-season tour in Asia due to a minor thigh injury. His absence and desire to leave risk damaging his relationship with fans, despite manager Eddie Howe insisting the club still supports him.
Liverpool previously pulled out of the Van Dijk deal after Southampton filed a complaint, only to sign him months later for £75 million. Newcastle’s owners may feel Liverpool are using similar pressure tactics, which could complicate negotiations.
Despite the Isak situation, Howe remains focused on maintaining team unity and building on last season’s success, which saw Newcastle end a long domestic trophy drought and qualify for the Champions League.
Meanwhile, Newcastle are advancing talks to sign RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko in a £70 million deal, potentially opening the door for Liverpool to make another move for Isak before the transfer window closes.
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