Liverpool’s pursuit of Newcastle United’s star striker Alexander Isak has reportedly gained significant momentum, according to Sky Sports (Dandozzy, August 17, 2025).

Tensions at St James’ Park have intensified after Newcastle manager Eddie Howe revealed that Isak is currently sidelined from first-team activities due to an unauthorized absence during the club’s pre-season tour of Asia.

Having trained separately and missing Newcastle’s recent Sela Cup fixtures, Isak’s situation hints at a widening rift. Liverpool, whose initial £110 million offer was rejected, is now preparing a follow-up bid potentially in the £130–140 million range—enough to make Isak the Premier League’s most expensive signing, overtaking Florian Wirtz’s £116 million move.

Newcastle’s approach depends heavily on their ability to find a suitable replacement, with Brentford’s Yoane Wissa emerging as a prime target. Sky Sports also reports that Newcastle is ready to complete Wissa’s transfer once Brentford finalize the Dango Ouattara deal, though talks remain complicated.

Isak’s desire to join Liverpool appears to be growing stronger, with posts on X and insider accounts from @AnfieldSector claiming he has rejected a contract extension at Newcastle.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot views Isak as the ideal addition to his attacking setup, particularly following the departures of Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez, and the ongoing absence of Diogo Jota. Isak’s 23 Premier League goals last season, second only to Mohamed Salah, underline his clinical finishing and versatility, making him a top target.

The Reds’ recent £25 million cash injection from Ben Doak’s potential move to Bournemouth further boosts their ability to meet Newcastle’s valuation.

While talks continue, Newcastle’s hesitation to sell to a rival and the necessity of a replacement mean the deal is not yet sealed. Still, Liverpool’s persistence combined with Isak’s clear preference for Anfield promises a thrilling saga as the transfer window approaches its conclusion.