ORNSTEIN: Isak’s Newcastle Career Over as Liverpool Prepare Next Move

Liverpool’s Isak Pursuit Intensifies as Striker Refuses to Play for Newcastle Again

Liverpool’s headline pursuit of Alexander Isak has taken a dramatic turn, with The Athletic reporting that the Swedish striker has made it clear he will never represent Newcastle United again. For the Premier League champions, who have already tested Newcastle’s resolve with a £110 million bid, the situation presents both an opportunity and a test of patience in the final weeks of the summer transfer window.

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Isak’s Stance and the Breakdown with Newcastle

According to David Ornstein and colleagues at The Athletic, Isak has not featured in pre-season and is expected to miss Newcastle’s opener against Aston Villa. Sources close to the player say he considers his career at St James’ Park over, telling Eddie Howe before the summer that last season would be his final campaign with the club.

This belief stems from Newcastle’s decision not to offer him a new contract last year, citing the need to comply with financial regulations despite his deal running until 2028. Isak has since reiterated his desire to leave, making it clear in direct conversations with Howe that he does not wish to reintegrate into the squad.

From Liverpool’s perspective, this is the clearest sign yet that a move is possible. While Newcastle publicly maintain that Isak is not for sale, The Athletic’s reporting indicates that a proposal approaching £150 million could change their stance, especially if they secure a replacement.

Liverpool’s Financial Position and Transfer Strategy

The champions are in a position to act decisively. The Athletic’s Chris Weatherspoon highlights that Liverpool’s gross spend this summer stands at £252.2 million, the highest in the Premier League, but crucially, their £168.6 million in sales means a net spend of just £83.6 million.

The recent sale of Darwin Nunez to Al Hilal for an initial €53 million, potentially rising to €65 million, has further strengthened their ability to move without breaching profit and sustainability rules. Sporting director Richard Hughes has generated close to £200 million in fees when performance-related add-ons are factored in, giving Liverpool the flexibility to shatter the British transfer record if required.

Centre-Forward Priority

Isak is not just a target of convenience for Liverpool; he is the focal point of their forward planning. With Nunez gone, Arne Slot has a space in the squad for a leading No 9 who can provide both a ruthless finishing edge and the all-round link play required in his system.

Isak’s 2024-25 campaign saw him play a pivotal role in Newcastle’s Carabao Cup win and Champions League qualification. His combination of pace, movement and composure in front of goal fits the profile Liverpool are seeking. The Athletic’s analysis suggests that while Newcastle’s current stance is firm, the player’s refusal to play again could force a rethink before the 1 September deadline.

Squad Gaps and Parallel Recruitment

Liverpool’s recruitment drive is not limited to the forward line. As reported by The Athletic’s James Pearce, a shortage at centre-back has emerged following the sale of Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen and an Achilles injury to Joe Gomez. Only Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate are fit senior options ahead of the season opener against Bournemouth.

Giovanni Leoni of Parma is a leading target. The 18-year-old made 17 appearances in Serie A last season and is capped at Under-19 level for Italy. Convincing him to leave Italy will be challenging, but Liverpool are hopeful given the lack of domestic buyers able to meet his value. Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi is also admired, though no bid has been made.

Protecting Youth Pathways

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One of the more notable points from The Athletic’s coverage is Liverpool’s decision not to pursue PSG’s Bradley Barcola. Senior figures at Anfield believe signing a left-sided forward of his profile would block the pathway of Rio Ngumoha, a 16-year-old winger who has impressed in pre-season and is now considered part of the senior squad.

This approach underlines Slot’s willingness to integrate young talent and avoid unnecessary recruitment that could hinder player development.

Potential Departures Before Deadline Day

There could still be significant outgoings before the window shuts. Harvey Elliott has attracted interest from RB Leipzig, who view him as a replacement for Xavi Simons. Liverpool value the midfielder at around £50 million.

Kostas Tsimikas is another who may leave, with Nottingham Forest among those interested. Ben Doak, valued at around £20 million, is on the radar of several clubs including Leeds United. Midfielder Luca Stephenson is set to sign a new deal before joining Dundee United on loan.

Waiting on Newcastle

Ultimately, the Isak situation hinges on whether Newcastle soften their stance. As Ornstein reported, they may consider a sale if a huge offer arrives and they can secure adequate replacements. Isak’s refusal to play again, coupled with Liverpool’s financial firepower, makes this one of the defining transfer stories of the summer.

Liverpool have shown they are prepared to wait for the right moment, but the clock is ticking. If the breakthrough comes, it would not only be a statement signing but a decisive move in Arne Slot’s first season, potentially reshaping the balance of power in the Premier League.