Liverpool’s pursuit of Alexander Isak looks set to reach its climax in the coming days, with reports claiming a Premier League-record £130 million bid is on the verge of being submitted.
The Reds’ initial £110m offer earlier this month was turned down, but Newcastle’s stance may be softening following the arrival of Stuttgart striker Nick Woltemade.
The 25-year-old Swede has made it clear he wants to join Liverpool, refusing to train with Eddie Howe’s squad and publicly accusing the club of breaking promises about his future.
While Newcastle have insisted he isn’t for sale, mounting financial pressures and growing unrest within the squad could now push them to reconsider.
Newcastle’s Summer Overhaul
The Magpies have been busy reshaping their squad, sealing a record £65m deal for Woltemade, who scored 12 goals in 28 Bundesliga matches and finished top scorer at the U21 Euros.
His signing follows other big additions, including Anthony Elanga, Jacob Ramsey, Malick Thiaw, and Aaron Ramsdale, as Howe prepares his side for a long campaign that includes Champions League football.
Talks also continue for Wolves striker Jørgen Strand Larsen and Brentford’s Yoane Wissa. Insiders suggest Isak may only be allowed to leave if Newcastle secure at least two more forwards before the deadline.
Growing Rift with Fans
Once a hero for helping deliver Newcastle’s first domestic trophy in 70 years, Isak’s relationship with supporters has soured after openly pushing for a move. He is said to have told the board in a heated meeting that “he wants out,” and has since kept his distance from Howe and teammates.
Even direct attempts by chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan to change his mind have failed, with Isak determined to seal a switch to Anfield.
Liverpool’s Plans
Arne Slot has already bolstered his squad with Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike, but views Isak as the marquee addition to lead Liverpool’s attack. Personal terms with the striker are already agreed, leaving negotiations between the two clubs as the final hurdle.
Trusted sources such as David Ornstein report there is “growing expectation” that Isak will be a Liverpool player before the window shuts, while Jan Aage Fjørtoft has gone as far as to claim the transfer is “practically done.”
Final Hours of the Window
With just days left before the deadline, the stage is set for a dramatic conclusion. Newcastle’s signing of Woltemade may have paved the way, but Liverpool still need to put their record bid on the table.
For Isak, this is the chance to fulfill his dream move and become the focal point of Liverpool’s title defense. For Newcastle, it could mean closing the chapter on their Swedish star while beginning a new era led by their towering German striker.
