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Newcastle United have rejected an initial transfer offer from Liverpool for striker Alexander Isak. The Magpies reportedly value the Swedish forward at around £150 million, while Liverpool's offer is believed to be approximately £110 million plus add-ons.
Isak, 25, was left out of Newcastle's squad for their pre-season tour of Asia, reportedly due to a minor thigh injury. However, it has since emerged that the striker wants to explore a move away from the club. He is currently training alone at his former club, Real Sociedad, as speculation continues around his future.
The striker joined Newcastle in 2022 from Real Sociedad for £60 million and played a key role last season, finishing as the club's top scorer with 27 goals in 42 appearances. Despite Newcastle qualifying for the Champions League, Isak appears open to a new challenge.
Liverpool have been interested in Isak for some time. BBC Sport reported in July that the Premier League champions were preparing a bid worth up to £130 million. Although Newcastle have insisted that Isak is not for sale this summer, Liverpool submitted their first formal bid this week.
Manager Arne Slot is reportedly very eager to bring Isak to Anfield before the new season begins. Liverpool have already made several high-profile signings this summer, including Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong, Giorgi Mamardashvili and Armin Pecsi. The combined cost of these transfers is estimated to be about £265 million, excluding additional fees. Meanwhile, the club has parted ways with Luis Diaz, Jarell Quansah, Caoimhin Kelleher and Trent Alexander-Arnold for a total of £115 million.
The timeline of the transfer saga shows how events have unfolded. In May, Isak ended the season as Newcastle's top scorer. In July, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe stated that Isak would be part of the pre-season tour, but days later the striker was excluded. On July 24, reports confirmed Isak's desire to leave, and he later began training alone in Spain.
While Newcastle remain firm on their valuation, it is unclear whether Liverpool will return with an improved offer. For now, Isak's future remains unresolved as transfer negotiations continue ahead of the new Premier League season.
