Alexander Isak, a target for Liverpool, has been spotted arriving at Newcastle’s training ground after being instructed to train separately from the first team, with Liverpool’s recent sales potentially providing funds for a renewed bid for the Swedish striker.
Isak has expressed his desire to leave St James’ Park, with Anfield emerging as a probable destination. The forward was absent from the club’s pre-season tour in Asia, and manager Eddie Howe has adopted a strict approach regarding his behaviour.
The player has been excluded from first-team training and was told to arrive later in the afternoon after his teammates had departed, which he complied with amidst the swirling rumours about his future.
Isak’s unauthorised visit to his old club Real Sociedad’s training facilities only came to light for Howe through the press. Howe’s frustration was palpable when he remarked: “The player has a responsibility here to be part of a team and part of a squad and you have to act in the right way. No player can expect to act poorly and train with the group as normal.”
Liverpool’s initial £120 million bid for Isak was rejected by Newcastle, who have set a valuation of £150 million on him. For the transfer to proceed, Newcastle would need to reduce their asking price or Liverpool would have to break the British transfer record for the second time in a single summer.
Arne Slot has made a splash in the transfer market, splurging over £200 million with Florian Wirtz as his standout acquisition. Hugo Ekitike has been brought in to lead the line, yet Alexander Isak remains a target to bolster an attack that already boasts Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo.
Liverpool’s recent departures could pave the way for a swoop for Isak while keeping the club well within PSR (Profitability and Sustainability Regulations) guidelines. Luis Diaz bid farewell to Anfield, moving to Bayern Munich for a hefty £65.5 million fee.
Darwin Nunez is tipped to be the next big name to leave, with Al-Hilal showing readiness to fork out £50 million for the Uruguayan forward who has seen his role diminish under Slot.
Harvey Elliott, too, might be on the move after confessing the need to make a “selfish” decision regarding his future, especially after shining at the U21 Euros. A potential switch to RB Leipzig could net Liverpool another £50 million.
In just a fortnight, the Reds could amass upwards of £150 million from player sales alone.