Liverpool’s aspirations of securing the signature of Alexander Isak appear to be faltering as the financial ceiling they are willing to breach for the Newcastle United striker comes into sharper focus. The towering Swedish forward is presently training solo at his former club, Real Sociedad, while Liverpool meticulously prepare their opening bid.
However, the steely resolve of Newcastle’s ‘irate’ proprietors suggests they expect Isak to rejoin his teammates next week. Sky Sports’ Keith Downie believes that Isak will indeed link up with Eddie Howe’s squad upon their return from their preseason adventure in South Korea.
Downie elucidated: “Isak is currently honing his fitness in the Basque region, distancing himself from the ongoing speculation at Newcastle. His desire to weigh his options following Liverpool’s informal approach has been made clear.”
With Newcastle’s contingent halfway across the world, Isak has been left to ponder his future. Despite a reported minor thigh strain, the decision for him to stay put has seemingly been overshadowed by the player’s inclinations towards a new challenge.
“Eddie Howe has spoken highly of Isak’s personal training regime, though the optics are far from ideal for the Geordie faithful. Yet, a reunion with his teammates is anticipated early next week,” Downie revealed. “Once back, discussions with Howe and senior staff regarding the Swede’s future are expected to ensue, particularly since Liverpool is yet to formalise a proposal.”
Meanwhile, sources suggest Liverpool’s willingness to part with £130 million, inclusive of add-ons, falls short of the Magpies’ £150 million valuation, a sum reinforced by the Public Investment Fund’s adamant stance.
Jan Aage Fjørtoft, a former footballer turned journalist, notes that Liverpool’s ambitions may also be hindered by Newcastle’s unfulfilled need for a successor to Isak, the absence of a head of sport at St. James’ Park, and the looming need for resolution in this protracted saga.
Newcastle’s interest in Benjamin Sesko persists, but with no concrete developments, the uncertainty surrounding Isak’s fate continues to swirl.
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