A surprising new contender has emerged in the race to sign Liverpool target Alexander Isak, with Richard Keys sharing fresh developments he’s heard regarding the situation.
Isak’s future at Newcastle United remains uncertain amid reports he has effectively gone on strike to push through a summer move to Liverpool.
Speculation surrounding the striker intensified as Liverpool began their Premier League season with a 4-2 win over Bournemouth on Friday.
Meanwhile, Hugo Ekitike—who joined his current club from Eintracht Frankfurt in a £79 million move this summer—scored his first league goal and provided an assist in a standout Man of the Match performance. His display earned praise from both fans and pundits, including Alan Shearer, who took a jab at Isak on social media.
During a segment on beIN SPORTS, Richard Keys and Andy Gray discussed Liverpool’s ongoing pursuit of the Swedish forward.
Liverpool reportedly had a £110 million offer turned down by Newcastle. According to Keys, the Merseyside club is preparing a second bid, believed to be worth £140 million—comprising £80 million upfront and another £60 million to follow next season.
Keys also mentioned hearing that Real Madrid could be entering the race for the 25-year-old striker.
“I heard today that Liverpool have made a bid of £110m. A second offer of £80m now and £60m next season. Take your pick,” Keys said, adding: “But I’ve also heard that Real Madrid might be in the frame.”
Commenting further on the player’s stance, Keys said: “I can’t believe he would have taken such drastic action without having some confidence that he’ll be gone before the window closes.”
Although Real Madrid already have a powerful attacking lineup that includes Kylian Mbappe, they’ve focused their recent transfers on midfield and defensive reinforcements under Xabi Alonso. With young talents like Endrick and Gonzalo Garcia already in their ranks, there’s no urgent need for another striker. However, as one of the world’s biggest clubs, they’re likely to show interest when a top-class player like Isak becomes available.
Ahead of Newcastle’s season opener at Aston Villa—where Isak was absent from the squad—manager Eddie Howe was asked for an update on the situation.
He responded: “No different to how it has been for a number of weeks. We are without him. We are adapting to that and still trying to be competitive. Today will be a big test for us.
“Now is not the time to discuss that (whether he feels let down). All my emotions are towards this game. This is a tough place to come. We have got to be there mentally, me included.”
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