Alexander Isak saga takes a dramatic twist as a new statement from the player is released.

Liverpool Receive Boost in Isak Pursuit as Transfer Deadline Nears

Liverpool may have been handed a significant boost in their late push to sign Alexander Isak from Newcastle, with the transfer window set to close in just hours.

Isak, 25, is eager to join Liverpool and has reportedly refused to play for Newcastle this season in an effort to force a move to Anfield. The Reds have already seen a £110 million bid turned down for the Swedish striker, who netted 27 goals last season. Nevertheless, they’re expected to submit a second offer before Monday’s 7pm deadline.

Earlier this month, Isak accused Newcastle of breaking promises about allowing him to leave this summer, claiming his relationship with the club is now fractured. Newcastle denied any such agreement existed. Manager Eddie Howe has expressed his desire to keep Isak but admitted he’s unsure whether the forward will remain at the club by the end of the window.

Newcastle have already brought in Nick Woltemade from Stuttgart for £69 million as a possible replacement but are still looking to secure another attacking option before potentially letting Isak go. Their efforts to sign Brentford’s Yoane Wissa have been unsuccessful so far, with bids—one as high as £50 million—rejected.

Like Isak, Wissa is refusing to play in an attempt to push through a move, and on Sunday he released a strongly worded statement on Instagram. He accused Brentford of going back on a promise to let him leave if a fair offer came in, insisting the club is now blocking his exit despite earlier verbal and written agreements.

Wissa stated that he had been transparent throughout the summer and had already received an offer from another Premier League club, which he wishes to accept. He urged Brentford to respect the commitment they made and allow him to move on.

It’s unclear whether Wissa’s public statement will lead to a deal, but the situation could have a knock-on effect on Liverpool’s pursuit of Isak. According to The Telegraph, Liverpool are preparing a British-record £130 million bid for Isak, but Newcastle may hold off on accepting unless they can secure the attacking reinforcements they need.