Liverpool have received a potential boost in their pursuit of Newcastle’s Swedish striker, Alexander Isak. This follows Eddie Howe’s comments in which he distanced himself from the club’s decision on the player’s future, thus keeping the door open for a move to Merseyside.
Liverpool’s ambition to secure Isak’s services this summer has been clear, but the prospect seemed out of reach a couple of months back when Newcastle earned their Champions League berth. The Magpies looked set to retain their star player, yet Liverpool’s interest prompted Isak to express his desire to make Anfield his new home.
The saga intensified with Liverpool’s substantial but rejected bid of £110 million, falling short of Newcastle’s valuation at approximately £150 million. This figure appeared to reflect the value placed on Isak within the club and their Saudi ownership.
Speculation reached new heights as The Daily Telegraph reported that Newcastle’s owners, PIF, had essentially blocked the move, insisting Isak remains with the club. This development, according to the reports, has led to some discord, with Isak purportedly training away from the first-team squad under Eddie Howe’s orders.
However, in his own words after a friendly against Atletico Madrid, Howe stated, “I think everything is in play. I’ve said many times he is contracted to us. He is our player. The club makes the decision on his future.” When pressed about possibly letting Isak go, Howe replied, “That’s a decision that I won’t make, that will be for other people to make.”
Liverpool remain cautious, unwilling to re-engage in negotiations unless Newcastle show a willingness to discuss a feasible deal, particularly if they secure a suitable replacement for Isak. As they prepare for their Premier League opener against Aston Villa, Howe noted, “We’re focusing on Aston Villa. Everything else, to a degree, from my perspective, is not in my control, so it’s not my focus.”
The uncertainty of Isak’s future keeps football fans on tenterhooks, with many speculating over whether Anfield will indeed be his destination before the transfer window closes.
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