Newcastle United close in on striker signing amid Alexander Isak transfer uncertainty

According to Sky Sports News, Wissa’s representatives are in London to help accelerate negotiations. Newcastle’s initial £25m ($33m) bid was rejected, but the club is expected to return with an improved offer, with all parties optimistic that progress can be made after the weekend.

The chase for Wissa comes amid a turbulent summer for Newcastle’s recruitment team. Speculation over Isak’s future has intensified after Liverpool had a £110m ($150m) offer rejected. The Magpies remain adamant they will not consider a sale until a suitable replacement is secured.

That search has been anything but straightforward. Newcastle have endured a string of setbacks, missing out on targets including Hugo Ekitike, Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, Dean Huijsen, Bryan Mbeumo and, most recently, Benjamin Sesko, who chose to join Manchester United. 

Interest in Wolves’ Jorgen Strand Larsen and PSG’s Goncalo Ramos has also stalled due to hefty asking prices.

Wissa represents a more attainable, proven Premier League option. The Congolese international scored 20 goals across all competitions last season and is valued for his pace, intelligent movement, and versatility, capable of playing both centrally and from wide areas. 

In 137 league appearances for Brentford across four seasons, he has netted 45 times.

Securing Wissa would be a significant boost for Newcastle, either as a partner for Isak should he stay, a direct competitor for the starting role, or as a key figure in reshaping the attack if a record-breaking sale goes through.

After a summer defined by near misses and mounting frustration, the Magpies may finally be closing in on the attacking reinforcement they have been chasing.