Newcastle United have reportedly rejected a formal offer from Liverpool for star striker Alexander Isak, with the proposed package valued at £120 million including add-ons. The Swedish forward, who is believed to be open to a move this summer has attracted strong interest from the Reds following an earlier informal approach.
The Premier League champions are keen on landing the Swedish centre-forward despite splashing £69m on Hugo Ekitike, who they beat Newcastle to the sign in July. The Reds have spent heavily already this summer, snapping up Florian Wirtz on a deal worth up to £116m, while Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez arrived from Bayer Leverkusen and Bournemouth, respectively, for a combined £75m.
Softfootball understands that Isak, who still has three years remaining on his contract, has made his intentions clear to Newcastle United, expressing his desire to leave the club this summer. In a telling move, the Swedish striker has opted to train at the facilities of his former club, Real Sociedad, while Eddie Howe’s squad presses on with their pre-season tour in South Korea.
Now, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano via his X handle, Newcastle United have rejected Liverpool’s opening bid for Isak, which was valued at £120 million including add-ons. The Magpies are unwilling to enter negotiations unless they secure a suitable replacement for the Swedish striker, a scenario that remains uncertain at this stage. The tweet reads:
“Liverpool opening bid for Alexander Isak was worth £120m package plus add-ons.
Newcastle rejected as they won’t open doors at least until finding a replacement… and it’s not guaranteed, at this stage.
Isak insists with Newcastle on his clear desire to join Liverpool”.
Newcastle have attempted to persuade Isak to stay, offering him an improved contract that included a release clause for next summer. Senior teammates also reportedly encouraged the striker to remain at St. James’ Park, but Isak and his representatives have consistently reiterated his desire to leave.
Despite their public stance, Newcastle are understood to be preparing for a possible exit and have started identifying potential replacements, should the situation escalate further.
