Report: Alexander Isak's future remains unsure as Liverpool up pursuit of Newcastle star

The Reds, who have already spent around 190 million pounds on six new signings this summer, are eager to bolster their attack and defence before the transfer window closes.

The tragic loss of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota, who died in a car crash in northern Spain at the age of 28, has left the club in mourning. Jota, who passed away less than two weeks after his wedding, was a key figure in Liverpool's recent successes, including the 2025 Premier League title, the 2022 FA Cup, and the 2022 League Cup.

The club have paused active transfer talks to honour Jota's memory, but their interest in Isak remains strong as they look to fill the void left by the Portuguese star.

Newcastle value Isak, 25, at approximately 150 million pounds, a figure that could make any transfer a British record. Despite the Magpies' firm stance on keeping their star, speculation about a move to Anfield persists.

Sky Sports commentator Ian Darke has weighed in, suggesting the move is not impossible. "There's no smoke without fire," Darke said on Liverpool News. "I don't think there are many players in Europe who wouldn't be interested in playing for Liverpool. Isak is probably no exception. It's a long shot, but you can imagine the uproar on Tyneside if Newcastle sold him."

Newcastle, however, are confident in retaining Isak. Sources indicate the club are preparing a historic contract that would make the Swedish international their highest-paid player, surpassing captain Bruno Guimaraes' wages.

Journalist Graeme Bailey reported, "Newcastle are willing to break their wage structure for Isak. Liverpool are watching closely, and this situation will come to a head soon." Lee Ryder of Chronicle Live echoed this sentiment, stating, "Howe is relaxed about Isak's future. He's not the type to push for a move, and Newcastle are under no pressure to sell".

Recent posts on X have added fuel to the speculation. One source claimed, "Isak has stalled contract talks and informed Liverpool he wishes to join them if possible," though this remains unverified.

Another post suggested Liverpool have made Isak their top striker target, with key figures, including manager Arne Slot, already discussing the project with him.

However, Newcastle have refuted claims of contact with Liverpool, insisting it would take over 150 million pounds to even start negotiations.

Elsewhere, Liverpool are advancing in their pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi. Reports indicate the Reds have an agreement in principle with Guehi on a five-year contract, and negotiations with Palace are ongoing as the defender enters the final year of his deal. Italian journalist Nicolo Schira noted, "Guehi is pushing for a move to Liverpool after positive talks with his agents".

On the outgoing front, Liverpool could consider offers for winger Luis Diaz if a substantial bid arrives. Despite the club's initial reluctance to sell, interest from Bayern Munich, Barcelona, and Saudi clubs has raised questions about his future.

Additionally, midfielder Harvey Elliott, named Player of the Tournament at the Under-21 Euros, is attracting attention from Newcastle and RB Leipzig. TalkSPORT reported, "Elliott is keen on a move to a Champions League club if he leaves Liverpool".

As Liverpool navigate their grief over Jota's passing, their ambition in the transfer market remains clear. Whether they can prise Isak from Newcastle or secure Guehi's signature, the Reds are poised for an active end to the transfer window, aiming to build a squad capable of defending their Premier League crown.