Liverpool Still Pursuing Alexander Isak Despite Newcastle\'s Rejection
Liverpool remain interested in signing Newcastle forward Alexander Isak despite the Magpies rejecting an initial inquiry two weeks ago, sources told ESPN. The Premier League champions are prepared to pay approximately $195 million for the Sweden international as part of their $520 million summer spending spree.
Liverpool have already spent $350 million on Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong this summer. The club views this transfer window as crucial for building their team for the next five years.
The 25-year-old striker has been absent from Newcastle\'s preseason tour of Singapore and South Korea. ESPN reported last week that Isak wants to consider options away from St James\' Park despite having three years remaining on his contract.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe initially expressed confidence about retaining Isak but recently acknowledged the decision ultimately rests with the board.
\"Ultimately, the decision will rest with the board,\" Howe said during Newcastle\'s Singapore tour.
Liverpool\'s significant player sales have funded their summer activity. The club raised $67 million from departures including Jarell Quansah, Caoimhin Kelleher and Trent Alexander-Arnold, with Luis Diaz\'s $85 million move to Bayern Munich nearly complete.
Additional revenue from their Premier League title and Champions League campaign provides further financial headroom. Liverpool earned $233 million from winning the Premier League and $110 million from European competition.
Newcastle\'s constraints under Profit and Sustainability Rules could make a $195 million offer difficult to refuse despite losing their best player.
Via Mark Ogden/ESPN