Newcastle Smash Transfer Record with Blockbuster Striker Deal as Isak Decision Looms

Newcastle United have confirmed the acquisition of forward Nick Woltemade from Stuttgart for a record transfer fee.

The Magpies required a new striker at the beginning of the summer window after Callum Wilson's free transfer exit, but were subsequently shaken by Alexander Isak's expressed wish to depart and move to Liverpool.

A preliminary approach and initial offer of £110 million ($148.4 million) from Liverpool have both been rejected by Newcastle, who have privately stated their determination to retain Isak this summer. Nevertheless, their position has been anticipated to weaken if they could secure an adequate replacement.

After missing out to Chelsea for both Liam Delap and João Pedro and seeing Manchester United secure Benjamin Šeško, Newcastle ultimately focused on 23-year-old Woltemade, who scored 12 Bundesliga goals last season and impressed for Germany at this summer's European Under-21 Championships.

Woltemade has now finalized his transfer to Newcastle, who have paid an upfront £65 million (€75.1 million, $87.7 million) plus £4.3 million in performance-related bonuses—establishing a new club record for the Magpies.

"I'm extremely pleased to join this incredible club. From the initial contact, I sensed that the club genuinely wanted me and had ambitious plans for my future," stated Woltemade, who had been the target of multiple unsuccessful approaches from Bayern Munich before completing his move to Tyneside.

With Woltemade now secured, Liverpool are anticipated to again challenge Newcastle's determination regarding Isak, who has openly stated he feels unable to return to St James' Park due to "unfulfilled promises" concerning a new contract.

A fresh offer of £130 million could come from Liverpool if Newcastle show readiness to discuss Isak's transfer, though the Reds are not expected to match the £150 million valuation established earlier in the summer.