Journalist: Liverpool Still Want Alexander Isak Despite £69m Hugo Ekitike Deal | OneFootball

Alexander Isak Still On Liverpool’s Radar as Ekitike Deal Confirmed

Liverpool’s summer rebuild under Arne Slot is not done yet. Despite confirming the signing of Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt, the Premier League champions remain interested in Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak. According to The Liverpool Echo’s Ian Doyle, Liverpool are “still monitoring developments of Alexander Isak at Newcastle.”

The Reds’ move for Ekitike, reportedly worth an initial £69 million with potential add-ons taking it to £79 million, has added further depth to their attacking ranks. However, this has not cooled interest in Isak, who remains a key target for Slot. “Liverpool had been in contact with [Ekitike’s] player’s camp since January,” wrote Doyle, suggesting that the move was well-planned rather than reactive.

Yet, the timing is interesting. Newcastle rebuffed Liverpool’s initial approach for Isak, which reportedly prompted the Ekitike move. Still, Doyle’s insight confirms: “#LFC still monitoring developments of Alexander Isak at Newcastle.”

Newcastle Standing Firm Over Isak Future

Newcastle United remain reluctant to sell. The Swedish international, who netted 20 goals in all competitions last season, is seen as central to their Champions League plans. Reports indicate the Magpies are attempting to tie Isak down to a new contract, with his camp asking for a £300,000-a-week deal. Newcastle’s counter offer? A more modest £180,000 per week.

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe addressed Isak’s status directly, saying: “At this moment in time, I expect him to come. I’d never give a guarantee about anybody [staying] because I’ve been in football long enough to know I could end up looking silly.” That hesitation alone will fuel speculation.

Notably, while Isak did not feature in Newcastle’s recent friendly against Celtic, The Northern Echo report he will travel with the squad to Asia for pre-season. However, his absence in the opening fixture could hint at deeper discussions behind the scenes.

Ekitike Strengthens but Slot Still Seeks More

Liverpool’s new manager Arne Slot has already made a mark. With Premier League and Community Shield trophies already secured in his debut season, Slot has overseen over £300 million in summer spending. The arrivals of Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez and now Ekitike signal ambition at Anfield.

But the pursuit of Isak suggests something more strategic. Fraser Fletcher previously reported that Isak is Slot’s “dream signing” and Liverpool are willing to pay up to £120 million. That kind of investment doesn’t happen without conviction, even with Ekitike now on board.

As Doyle puts it, Ekitike is “viewed as versatile forward who can play at number nine, but also out wide or as second striker.” He fits into Slot’s system but doesn’t rule out a marquee number nine arriving.

Photo: IMAGO

Isak Transfer Watch: Situation Evolving

While Isak’s camp continue to explore options, including interest from Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal, his future remains unresolved. Representative Gonzalo Gaitan told Arriyadiyah: “We are indeed studying and analysing all options, and we may be close to finalising the next step for the player.”

Liverpool are clearly playing the long game. The club’s approach suggests patience, and with the transfer window still open for weeks, a late move cannot be ruled out.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, the latest update is tantalising. The Ekitike deal might have been fast-tracked after Newcastle knocked back the Reds’ initial approach for Isak, but the fact that Ian Doyle confirms the club “still monitoring developments” suggests the door is still open.

Isak would be the crown jewel in an already glittering transfer window. While Ekitike brings versatility and youth, Isak offers proven Premier League pedigree and a different level of composure in front of goal. Watching him last season, he often resembled a younger, more agile Ibrahimovic — strong, calm and ruthless.

Slot has shown he’s not afraid to build a side in his image. The additions of Wirtz and Frimpong have already energised the team, and Kerkez offers real promise. But Isak would signal something else entirely: that Liverpool are ready to dominate, not just compete.

If the club can tempt Newcastle into negotiations, or if Isak forces their hand by refusing a new deal, this story could heat up quickly. And let’s not ignore the fact that Isak hasn’t played pre-season and Newcastle’s boss sounds uncertain. There’s a scent of opportunity in the air.