David Ornstein from The Athletic has reported that Newcastle United have firmly rejected an initial offer from Liverpool for their star striker, Alexander Isak, as the transfer saga surrounding the Swedish international intensifies.
The bid, reportedly valued at around £110 million with additional performance-related add-ons, fell significantly short of Newcastle's £150 million valuation of the 25-year-old forward, signaling the Magpies' determination to retain their key player unless their demands are met.
🚨 EXCL: Newcastle reject official bid from Liverpool for Alexander Isak. Initial approach informal - now firm #LFC offer & turned down. #NUFC suggested new deal with 2026 release clause + senior team-mates pushed 25yo to stay but wants move @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/UGGBHUGMxm
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) August 1, 2025
A Prized Asset at St. James’ Park
Since joining Newcastle from Real Sociedad in 2022 for £60 million, Isak has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most prolific strikers. Last season, he scored an impressive 27 goals in 42 appearances, including a standout strike against Liverpool that was named the most powerfully struck goal in the Premier League. His clinical finishing, versatility, and ability to lead counter-attacks have made him a cornerstone of Newcastle’s attack, helping the club secure a fifth-place finish and Champions League qualification.
Newcastle’s stance is clear: Isak is not for sale unless a suitable replacement is secured, and any deal must meet their lofty valuation. The club, backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), is in a strong financial position under Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR), giving them the leverage to resist pressure from both Liverpool and Isak’s camp.
Liverpool’s Pursuit and Isak’s Desire
Liverpool, fresh off their Premier League title win, have identified Isak as their top target to bolster their attacking line under manager Arne Slot. The Reds have already invested heavily this summer, spending approximately £265 million on players like Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, and others, while raising £115 million through sales of players such as Luis Diaz and Trent Alexander-Arnold. Despite their recent acquisition of Ekitike for £79 million, Liverpool view Isak as a proven Premier League talent who could elevate their forward line to new heights.
Isak has made no secret of his desire to join Liverpool, reportedly rejecting a lucrative £600,000-a-week offer from Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal to prioritize a move to Anfield. He has been training alone at Real Sociedad’s facilities, citing a minor thigh injury, though speculation suggests his absence from Newcastle’s pre-season tour in Asia is linked to his transfer ambitions. Sources indicate that personal terms with Liverpool would not be an issue, with reports of a five-year contract already agreed in principle.
Newcastle’s Replacement Strategy
Newcastle’s reluctance to sell is compounded by the challenge of finding a suitable replacement. The club has explored options such as Brentford’s Yoane Wissa, Fulham’s Rodrigo Muniz, Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson, and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, but none are seen as direct equivalents to Isak’s caliber. A potential move for Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins has also been considered, though Villa have declared their star striker unavailable. Without a high-quality replacement, Newcastle are unwilling to negotiate, even with Isak’s determination to leave.
The Magpies have also attempted to secure Isak’s future by offering a new contract with a release clause that would activate next summer. However, the player’s preference for an immediate move to Liverpool has complicated these discussions, leaving Newcastle in a delicate position as they balance their squad’s competitiveness with financial considerations.
Liverpool’s Next Steps
Liverpool’s opening bid, described as being in the region of £110 million to £120 million with add-ons, was swiftly rebuffed, but the Reds are expected to return with an improved offer in the coming days. Sources suggest that Liverpool are confident a deal can be struck, particularly given Isak’s clear preference for the move. The sale of Luis Diaz to Bayern Munich for £65.6 million has bolstered Liverpool’s financial flexibility, and their strong PSR position allows them to pursue a deal that could break the British transfer record for the second time this summer, following their £116 million signing of Wirtz.
Sky Sports reports indicate that negotiations could progress quickly, with personal terms already agreed and Liverpool poised to make a second offer. However, the clock is ticking, as Newcastle are adamant about securing a replacement before sanctioning any departure. The transfer window’s closing stages promise to be pivotal, with the outcome likely to hinge on whether Liverpool can meet Newcastle’s valuation and whether the Magpies can identify a viable alternative.
Fan Reactions and Broader Implications
Newcastle fans have expressed frustration over Isak’s actions, particularly his decision to train at Real Sociedad, with some questioning his commitment to the club. The possibility of a fine looms if Newcastle determine he left without permission. Meanwhile, Liverpool supporters are excited about the prospect of adding Isak’s goal-scoring prowess to an already formidable attack, which could make them favorites to retain their Premier League crown.
The transfer saga underscores the high stakes of modern football, where record-breaking fees and player power play significant roles. For Newcastle, losing Isak would be a blow, but their resolve to dictate terms reflects their ambition to remain a competitive force. For Liverpool, securing Isak would be a statement of intent, signaling their determination to dominate both domestically and in Europe.
As the situation develops, all eyes will be on whether Liverpool can meet Newcastle’s demands and whether the Magpies can navigate the transfer market to replace their talismanic striker. With the Premier League season approaching, the resolution of this high-profile transfer battle will have significant ramifications for both clubs.
