Liverpool’s Hugo Ekitike swoop sparks Alexander Isak transfer turmoil

Isak has been central to that success, finishing as the club’s top scorer in back-to-back seasons with 25 and 27 goals respectively. His 23 Premier League goals last term trailed only Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, who netted 29.

Despite already spending over $400M this summer, Liverpool could yet add further firepower. The Daily Mail reports that the reigning Premier League champions are preparing a British-record bid for Isak. However, the same report claims Newcastle remain hopeful of tying their star striker to a new long-term deal, one that would commit his peak years to Tyneside.

Isak’s absence from Newcastle’s recent pre-season friendly against Celtic and their Asia tour raised eyebrows. While the club cited a minor thigh issue, The Athletic reports the decision to stay behind was made at the player’s request.

Should Isak depart, Newcastle is said to be eyeing RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko as a potential replacement. The Slovenian striker has also attracted interest from Arsenal, though the Gunners are now focusing on Sporting CP’s prolific Viktor Gyokeres.

Liverpool opens the 2025-26 Premier League season on Aug. 15 at home to Bournemouth. Newcastle faces a tough trip to Aston Villa the following day. But until the window closes, much of the focus will remain on Isak and whether he’ll still be in black and white when the season kicks off.