Newcastle’s approach to Isak: Will Liverpool provide adequate incentives for a move? | OneFootball

With the summer window approaching, football is overflowing with speculation regarding the future of Newcastle United talisman Alexander Isak.

The Swedish sensation has been incandescent this term, netting 23 goals and attracting the attention of the league’s biggest clubs, such as Liverpool and Arsenal. Newcastle are resolute, however: they will not be selling Isak this summer. Yet, the intrigue doesn’t stop with the clubs; even football betting sites are stepping forward with predictions about whether Liverpool’s interest might sway Newcastle’s steadfast resolve.

Newcastle’s stance

Newcastle United boss CEO has been adamant about the club’s stance. Newcastle are in a good position to ride out offers as Isak’s contract is until 2028. It would be “crazy” to sell Isak, Eales has stated, given the ambition and solidity of the club. Newcastle have significantly reduced their balance sheet, bringing losses down from £71.8 million to £11.1 million over the last financial year. That way, they won’t need to sell such vital players as Isak in order to balance their books.

Newcastle intend to offer Isak a fresh, improved contract to ensure his long-term stay at St James’ Park. This is one part of an overall strategy to retain such players and invest in the side, following several years of tight finances that required them to sell the likes of Yankuba Minteh and Elliot Anderson. The club’s desire is to hold on to Isak, Bruno Guimarães, and Anthony Gordon, who are essential to their bid for Champions League qualification.

Liverpool’s interest

Liverpool are one of the clubs keenest to sign Isak. He is seen as the “number one centre-forward target” of Liverpool’s wish list, with their scouts believing he would be the perfect addition to their team. Liverpool will only go for Isak, however, if Newcastle demonstrate that they would be prepared to sell. They do not want to embark upon a lengthy negotiation or “wild goose chase” if the player is not indeed available.

Liverpool’s interest in Isak is because they need a world-class striker. Darwin Nunez going to Saudi Arabia is on the cards, and they need to sign a new No.9. In addition to Isak, Liverpool is also considering other targets, such as Brighton’s Joao Pedro, to ensure they have options if Isak is unavailable.

Other suitors

Arsenal is also keen on signing Isak. Manager Mikel Arteta likes the Swedish striker, but Arsenal is also considering more viable options, including Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko. Sesko has a variable release option based on performance-related factors, which is presently set at €70 million, and is a more viable target for Arsenal.

Chelsea and Barcelona also monitor Isak’s situation, but like Liverpool, they will need Newcastle to change their approach if there is to be any deal. Newcastle’s valuation on Isak is high, and sources suggest only a bid higher than £100 million would convince them to second-guess approaches.

Transfer dynamics

In football, transfer dynamics are mostly those of clever negotiations and chessboard posturing. Clubs have several tricks up their sleeves regarding holding or purchasing players. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Though Liverpool’s interest in Alexander Isak is sincere, it is yet to be seen if their pursuit will bear fruit. Newcastle’s resolve to keep their best striker is strong, and it would take a standout offer—maybe more than £100 million—to change their minds. Over the summer transfer window, the Isak saga will be one of football’s most closely followed stories. Whether he stays at Newcastle or goes to another club, this is one thing for certain: The professional future of Alexander Isak will have profound effects on Newcastle United and whatever club signs him.