Journalist: Why Newcastle United May Have to Sell Alexander Isak to Liverpool | OneFootball

Why Liverpool Could Tempt Newcastle into Selling Alexander Isak

Newcastle United’s determination to keep Alexander Isak at St James’ Park has taken on fresh urgency. According to Martin Hardy of The Times, the Magpies are prepared to offer the Swedish forward a significant pay rise that would make him one of the club’s top earners. The new deal would reportedly push Isak past the £150,000-a-week threshold, potentially eclipsing Bruno Guimaraes, currently on £160,000, per Capology.

Still, as things stand, the striker earns £120,000 a week, level with Sandro Tonali and Kieran Trippier. With Joelinton and Anthony Gordon also rumoured to be in the £150k range, a bumper contract may shift Newcastle’s wage structure further than they’d like.

The numbers matter more than ever for Eddie Howe’s side, who are walking a financial tightrope due to the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).

Photo: IMAGO

Financial Leverage Favouring Liverpool

What sets Liverpool apart this summer is flexibility. As Hardy notes in his report, “Newcastle have not signed a big name first-team player in three transfer windows because of concerns about being in breach of PSR.” In contrast, Arne Slot’s title-winning squad has no such constraints.

Liverpool have the freedom to act boldly, both in terms of transfer fees and wages. That could place them in pole position should Isak become available. “Liverpool are the Premier League champions and have already made significant upgrades to their title-winning squad,” the piece reminds us — and that status carries a magnetic pull.

Isak wouldn’t be moving for the pay packet alone. Slot’s side has proven silverware credentials and a deepening squad equipped for another sustained title tilt. Newcastle, by contrast, remain a promising project — but not yet genuine title contenders.

Selling May Become a Strategic Necessity

Hardy rightly points out the club’s recent attempts to strengthen the squad have stumbled at the negotiation table. “Eddie Howe’s men have already had an opening bid of £45m rejected for Anthony Elanga,” he wrote, also noting failed offers totalling £75m for James Trafford and Joao Pedro.

With no major signings in three windows, Newcastle’s hand may be forced. The report underscores how the Magpies had to sell Elliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh last summer to avoid a ten-point deduction, generating £70 million.

Newcastle’s Champions League return brings added revenue, but also risk. A threadbare squad could struggle with the twin demands of Europe and domestic football. Without incoming transfers, they risk another drop-off like the one that followed their fourth-place finish in 2022/23.

Liverpool Could Await Their Opening

If Newcastle do relent, Liverpool will be ready. Isak scored 23 league goals last season and remains one of the most technically polished forwards in Europe. With his pace, movement, and finishing ability, he fits Slot’s blueprint.

However, this deal still hinges on Newcastle softening their position. “Can Newcastle really resist a potential record bid for their 23-goal striker when their squad is in clear need of investment?” asks Hardy. That’s the question Liverpool will be hoping is answered in their favour.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool perspective, this feels like the perfect storm. Isak is at the ideal age, has Premier League pedigree, and could thrive even further in a more dominant side. The added bonus is that Newcastle’s current situation may make them vulnerable to an offer they can’t refuse — particularly one front-loaded with cash and performance bonuses.

Arne Slot’s system requires intelligent movement and quick combinations. Isak’s ability to link play and finish chances clinically would complement Mohamed Salah, Luis Díaz, or Darwin Núñez. He is not a like-for-like replacement for any of Liverpool’s current forwards, but offers versatility and the ability to play as a lone striker or in a fluid front three.

There is also the matter of intent. After winning the title in Slot’s debut season, FSG will be eager to show this is not a one-off. A marquee signing like Isak sends a clear message to rivals that Liverpool are not resting on their laurels.

It won’t be easy. Newcastle won’t want to sell to a direct competitor, and rightly so. But if the financial tension continues to squeeze, Liverpool could find themselves at the front of the queue.