Alexander Isak ‘Upset’ as Newcastle United Reject £120m Liverpool Approach – Report | OneFootball

Alexander Isak Upset as Newcastle Block £120m Liverpool Transfer Approach

Liverpool’s ambitious move for Alexander Isak has hit a hard wall, with Newcastle United determined to keep their star striker despite Anfield’s eye-watering £120 million approach. As reported by The Express, the Swedish international is understood to be unhappy with his current situation at St James’ Park, particularly regarding his contract.

Liverpool’s Bold Move for Isak Rejected

Since his £63 million switch from Real Sociedad in January 2023, Isak has developed into one of the Premier League’s most lethal forwards. He netted 10 goals in his debut half-season, followed by two consecutive campaigns surpassing 20 goals, finishing just behind Mohamed Salah last season.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool’s attempt to prise him away, which would have set a British transfer record, was swiftly shut down. Newcastle’s hierarchy are standing firmly behind Eddie Howe’s plans, refusing to entertain any negotiations. Despite widespread interest from Europe’s top clubs, Liverpool remain the only team to make a serious push for Isak.

Contract Tensions at St James’ Park

What adds intrigue to the situation is Isak’s apparent frustration over his contract. As The Express highlighted, “contract talks are at a standstill and there has been ‘no progress’ towards agreeing an extension.” His representatives were reportedly “promised” an improved package last year, yet no agreement has been reached.

Newcastle are willing to make Isak their highest-paid player ever, offering a deal exceeding £200,000 per week. However, questions remain whether this will be enough to secure his long-term commitment, particularly given Liverpool’s clear admiration.

Liverpool Shift Focus to Hugo Ekitike

With Newcastle shutting the door on Isak, Liverpool have pivoted their attention to Hugo Ekitike. Anfield chiefs are reportedly moving ahead of Newcastle in the chase for the French forward, aiming to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the new season.

Meanwhile, Newcastle’s own transfer plans have faced challenges. After backing out of a move for Ekitike, they are now looking at Yoane Wissa. But with Manchester United closing in on Bryan Mbeumo, Brentford are unlikely to let both key attackers leave in the same window. Eddie Howe’s frustrations are clear, stating, “We have to be dynamic. We have to be ready to conclude things quickly because good players don’t hang around for long.”

What This Means for the Premier League Landscape

The knock-on effects of this saga stretch beyond just Newcastle and Liverpool. Isak’s unhappiness could spark interest across Europe, while Liverpool’s hunt for new firepower suggests Arne Slot is determined to keep the momentum going after winning the Premier League in his debut season. For Newcastle, keeping Isak signals intent, but failing to strengthen elsewhere may leave Eddie Howe short in a crucial campaign.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, this report feels like a punch to the gut. We are not used to seeing our club move so boldly and then be so publicly rejected. Isak would have been a thrilling signing — a player who could have slotted alongside Darwin Núñez or even been the eventual replacement for Salah when the time comes.

It’s hard not to feel frustrated that, despite our status as Premier League champions, we are struggling to land top-tier targets. Yes, Ekitike is a decent alternative, but let’s be honest, he’s unproven at this level. We should be sending a message to Europe that we can outbid anyone, not scrambling for plan B.

Another worrying aspect is the sense that the recruitment team moved on too quickly. Did we push Newcastle hard enough? Could a player-plus-cash deal have worked? And why let rivals like Manchester United snap up attackers under our nose?

There’s also concern about whether FSG will back Slot fully this summer. We need to build on last season, not just maintain. With Salah nearing the final stretch of his peak years, we should be investing in players like Isak now, not later.

In short, this report underlines the need for urgency, ambition and smart negotiation if Liverpool are to remain at the top.