The Premier League champions have been heavily linked with the Swedish forward, who is keen to join them, but Newcastle's resolute stance on their valuation has cooled negotiations.

On July 24, transfer expert Fraser Fletcher reported that Isak had expressed his desire to leave Newcastle and join Liverpool, a claim later supported by multiple sources. The 25-year-old, who scored 23 Premier League goals last season, has already agreed personal terms with Liverpool, indicating his enthusiasm for a move to Anfield, according to Sky Sports Switzerland.

Fabrizio Romano revealed on August 1 that Liverpool had tabled an offer worth 120 million pounds, including add-ons, for Isak, but Newcastle swiftly rejected it. Reports initially suggested Liverpool were preparing a higher bid of 140 million pounds to meet Newcastle's demands, which are set at 150 million pounds.

However, journalist Ben Jacobs clarified on X that the Reds' offer was actually 110 million pounds with no add-ons, and they have no plans to return with a new proposal unless Newcastle lower their asking price. "Liverpool have no plans as it stands to bid again for Alexander Isak this window. Nature of Newcastle's rebuttal means Liverpool will NOT follow up with a second offer," Jacobs said.

BBC Sport echoed this sentiment, stating on X, "Liverpool are pulling out of a deal for Alexander Isak after a 110 million pound bid (no add-ons) to Newcastle was rejected."

The ball now lies in Newcastle's court, as they hold firm on their valuation while exploring options to sign a replacement striker, with names like Benjamin Sesko, Ollie Watkins, Yoane Wissa, and Nicolas Jackson under consideration.

Newcastle's reluctance to sell Isak, who is contracted until 2028, is complicated by the player's actions. He has been training alone at his former club Real Sociedad's facilities, citing a minor thigh injury, though scans showed no issues.

Despite calls from senior Newcastle players urging him to join their pre-season tour in Asia, Isak remains steadfast in his desire to leave, raising concerns about team morale if he stays.

Eddie Howe, Newcastle's manager, addressed the situation in Seoul, saying, "He is still our player. He's contracted to us. We, to a degree, control what is next for him. My wish is that he stays, but that's not in my full control."

However, with no formal offer meeting their 150 million pound valuation, Newcastle's Saudi-backed owners, the Public Investment Fund, have reportedly blocked any move, leaving Isak's future uncertain.

Liverpool, who have already spent over 200 million pounds this summer on players like Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez, are financially equipped to pursue Isak but appear unwilling to meet Newcastle's demands without a shift in stance.

For now, the saga remains at a standstill, with Isak's ambition to join the Reds on hold as Newcastle hold all the cards.

Bongani Zungu > Career > Personal life > Stats