Liverpool Launch Record-Breaking Bid to Lure Newcastle's Star Striker Alexander Isak
Liverpool have made contact with Newcastle United regarding a potential record-setting transfer for forward Alexander Isak, according to recent reports.
The Merseyside club are seeking to acquire a new central striker during the summer window as they prepare for Darwin Núñez's departure, and have been consistently linked with a major move for Isak, though a rumored valuation of £150 million ($201.7 million) has hindered progress on the deal.
Isak is believed to be Liverpool's primary target and The Athletic now reports that an initial approach has been made to Newcastle to gauge the possibility of such a transfer.
While Liverpool have refuted claims of submitting an official offer for Isak, Arne Slot's team did indicate their readiness to pursue a deal valued around £120 million ($161.4 million).
This amount would establish Isak as the Premier League's most costly signing ever—a record currently belonging to Liverpool's Florian Wirtz following his £116 million ($156 million) transfer to Anfield this summer.
Newcastle have rejected the inquiry, stating they have neither the necessity nor intention to sell Isak during this transfer window. The club's strategy involves presenting the Swedish striker with an improved contract.
The Times, meanwhile, suggests Newcastle are preparing for a potential Liverpool offer reaching £130 million ($174.8 million).
Liverpool's urgency may have intensified following Newcastle's pursuit of Eintracht Frankfurt's Hugo Ekitiké. Eddie Howe envisions partnering Ekitiké alongside Isak, with the French striker not intended as a substitute.
Significantly, Ekitiké represents a target Liverpool have also monitored, joining several Premier League clubs who have investigated his availability this summer. Ekitiké carries a price tag of €100 million (£86.8 million, $116.7 million).
Sky Sports News now indicates Liverpool are prepared to compete with Newcastle for Ekitiké, after being told that securing Isak this summer remains unlikely.
Additionally, Liverpool have turned down Bayern Munich's approach for winger Luis Díaz, who has expressed his desire to leave the club this summer. The Reds remain firm in their stance against selling the Colombian player.