Craig Hope: Alexander Isak is on ‘Strike’ with Second Liverpool Bid Expected | OneFootball

Liverpool Push for Alexander Isak Amid Newcastle Strike Standoff

Credit to Craig Hope of The Daily Mail for revealing the full extent of Alexander Isak’s situation at Newcastle United, a saga now dominating the Premier League headlines and Liverpool’s summer strategy. The Swedish striker has taken the extraordinary step of refusing to train with Eddie Howe’s side, leaving himself unavailable for Saturday’s season opener at Aston Villa.

Isak’s stance is clear. As Hope reported, “Don’t show any sign of weakness, Alex,” has been the message from his camp, led by agent Vlado Lermic. The aim is to keep Newcastle in full pursuit of replacement strikers before sanctioning his move to Liverpool. The Merseyside club have already tabled a British-record £110m bid, fully aware it would be rejected, and are expected to return with another offer.

Photo: IMAGO

Why Isak Wants the Move to Anfield

Having scored 62 goals in 109 games and delivered Newcastle’s first trophy in 70 years, Isak has been an integral figure at St James’ Park. But his relationship with the hierarchy soured last summer when a promised new contract was withdrawn. The 25-year-old communicated his desire to leave earlier this summer, and Liverpool’s interest has only fuelled his determination.

Hope writes, “It did not have to be like this.” That sentiment is echoed by senior Newcastle figures, who feel disappointed rather than angry. Yet the player’s commitment to forcing a transfer has been unwavering. Liverpool’s offer is not the stumbling block — Newcastle’s readiness to negotiate is.

Newcastle’s Options and Liverpool’s Window

Hope’s report outlines multiple scenarios. Scenario A sees Isak return to training, possibly with a new contract and release clause. Scenario B is the sale after Newcastle sign replacements. Scenario C is him staying against his wishes until after the transfer window. Scenario D is a sale without a full replacement plan, with Yoane Wissa expected to arrive from Brentford.

For Liverpool, timing is critical. If Newcastle secure a forward such as Benjamin Sesko, the path for Isak to join Arne Slot’s side becomes far smoother. Without that, the move could hinge on deadline-day brinkmanship.

Isak’s Absence and the Mood in the Camp

Isak is training alone, away from team-mates who have barely seen him since pre-season. His rented property is already on the market, adding to the impression that his time in the North East is coming to a close. Howe’s public line remains that he wants Isak back with the squad, but privately there is a growing sense of finality.

As Hope revealed, “Liverpool returning with a second offer is not one of the unknowns in this saga. They have not come this far to walk away after one bid.” The question now is whether Newcastle blink before the window closes, or whether Isak is forced to bide his time until January.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, this is exactly the sort of statement signing that signals serious intent for back-to-back Premier League titles under Arne Slot. Isak’s pace, power and finishing would add a new dimension to a front line that has been reshaped over the last 18 months. While there is sadness in the city over Diogo Jota’s tragic passing this summer, the prospect of adding a striker of Isak’s calibre offers hope for both on-field success and a symbolic new chapter.

At £110m or more, it is a monumental investment, but Liverpool’s recruitment model has always been about targeted quality over scattergun quantity. Isak is in his prime, proven in the Premier League, and has the versatility to play centrally or in wider roles. The fact that he is actively pushing for the move suggests he sees Anfield as the perfect stage.

The pressure point is Newcastle’s replacement search. If they get Wissa in quickly and secure another striker before deadline day, the dominoes could fall in Liverpool’s favour. If not, Slot may have to wait until January, which would be a frustration given the fixture load and Champions League ambitions.

One thing is certain: if Isak walks out in Liverpool red before the window shuts, the roar at Anfield will be heard all the way up the A1.