Liverpool could dangle Italian winger in Alexander Isak bid

Alexander Isak's desire to join Liverpool has led to some interesting moments in recent weeks. The Newcastle United striker has reportedly made his desire to join the current Premier League champions very clear. 

Newcastle, on the other hand, has dug its heels in during reported negotiations between the two teams. As such, it would appear that Liverpool is considering getting creative with their transfer bids.

In an Aug. 22 report from Mark Brus of Caught Offside, it emerged that Liverpool is weighing the option of including Federico Chiesa as part of a bid for Isak.

"It remains to be seen if Newcastle would accept anything but a huge fee for Isak, but it seems LFC are prepared to at least consider trying to offer them players as part of the overall package as well," Brus reported. "The Magpies have already strengthened in attack with the signing of Anthony Elanga this summer, but Chiesa could also be seen as a tempting option."

Isak is among the top strikers in the Premier League. He scored 23 league goals last season, along with six assists. During his three years with Newcastle, he's recorded 54 goals in 76 appearances, which is a clinical strike rate. It's understandable why Liverpool wants him, and why Newcastle is so keen to hang onto him.

Chiesa, while not a striker, could help soften the blow of losing Isak so close to the summer transfer window slamming shut. Nevertheless, Newcastle will likely demand an eye-watering fee, especially as they will need to replace his goalscoring and overall impact. 

Newcastle will undoubtedly want to keep Isak around. But when a player makes it clear they want out, and a team like Liverpool is on the hunt, these things usually end one way. At least in a part-exchange deal, Newcastle will be getting a difference-maker plus cash in return.