Alexander Isak has taken significant steps to push through his transfer to Liverpool, as Newcastle consider a record-breaking offer for their striker.
The Newcastle forward was excluded from the squad during the club’s recent pre-season tour, with reports revealing that Isak has formally requested a move away from St James’ Park.
Liverpool, the reigning Premier League champions, are the frontrunners linked with signing Isak, though Saudi club Al-Hilal has also been mentioned as a potential destination.
However, Newcastle are expected to demand a very high fee to part with their key player, with estimates around £150 million.
According to talkSPORT, Isak has not returned to training since making his transfer request last week. Instead, he is training at home while Newcastle continue to consider his future.
The same source claims that Isak would seek a £300,000-per-week salary to agree to a new contract at Newcastle.
Isak’s future at Newcastle remains uncertain, but a departure is a distinct possibility.
Unlike last summer, Newcastle do not face Premier League squad registration (PSR) issues that forced them to sell Elliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh. Still, a £150 million sale would relieve financial pressure for the coming three years and provide funds for reinvestment — though recent transfer windows have shown that reinvesting doesn’t always guarantee success.
This summer, players like Dean Huijsen, Bryan Mbeumo, Joao Pedro, Huge Ekitike, and James Trafford have all declined moves to Newcastle.
Newcastle might take lessons from Tottenham’s reinvestment of the £85 million received for Gareth Bale in 2013, when only Christian Eriksen and Erik Lamela became long-term successes out of seven signings.
As for Liverpool, while it’s arguable they don’t urgently need another striker after spending nearly £300 million recently, Isak would be a strong addition.
The Swedish forward is an exciting Premier League striker entering his prime. He scored 27 goals last season, finishing second in the Golden Boot race behind Liverpool’s Mo Salah.
Concerns around Isak mainly relate to his injury history. The club cited a thigh injury as the reason for his absence on the pre-season tour, and last season manager Eddie Howe admitted they had to manage his playing time carefully due to recurring groin issues.
Standing at 6’3”, Isak’s style of play means muscle injuries are a risk, so careful management of his minutes will be necessary.
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