Report: Alexander Isak's transfer from Newcastle to Liverpool edges closer to completion

The Reds are set to fund the blockbuster transfer by offloading several players, including Luis Diaz, whose 65.5 million pounds move to Bayern Munich is reportedly imminent.

Isak, 25, has established himself as one of the Premier League's elite forwards since joining Newcastle from Real Sociedad in 2022. Last season, he netted 25 goals in 40 appearances across all competitions, showcasing his clinical finishing and dynamic movement. His performances have made him a top target for Liverpool, who are eager to strengthen their attack under head coach Arne Slot.

On July 24, reports emerged that Isak had informed Newcastle of his desire to leave, with Liverpool as his preferred destination. "I can confirm that the decision has been made on the player's side. Alexander Isak wants to leave Newcastle this summer," said transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on his podcast.

"He feels that now there is a really important club like Liverpool competing to win every single title next season."

Newcastle, however, have been resolute, insisting their star striker is not for sale. "It's difficult for me to give 100 percent clarity on any player," said Newcastle manager Eddie Howe after a friendly against Celtic.

"Alex is happy at Newcastle, he loves the players, the staff, the team. I'm confident he'll be here at the start of the season."

Despite Howe's optimism, Isak's absence from Newcastle's pre-season tour of Asia, officially due to a minor thigh injury, has fueled speculation about his future.

Liverpool's pursuit comes amid a busy transfer window, with the Reds already securing Florian Wirtz for a club-record 116.5 million pounds, alongside signings like Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong.

To finance Isak's potential arrival, Liverpool are prepared to part ways with Harvey Elliott, Darwin Nunez, and Federico Chiesa. Elliott has struggled for regular minutes, while Nunez's inconsistent finishing has drawn scrutiny.

Chiesa, meanwhile, has been linked with a return to Serie A. These sales, combined with Diaz's departure, could generate the funds needed to meet Newcastle's 150 million pounds valuation.

Isak's frustration stems from stalled contract talks with Newcastle, who have yet to meet his 300,000 pounds-per-week wage demands. Sources also suggest he is disappointed with the club's limited activity in the transfer market, prompting him to seek a move to a side with greater trophy ambitions.

Liverpool, fresh off their Premier League title win last season, fit the bill.

Recent posts on X reflect the growing buzz around the transfer. One source claimed, "Isak has told Eddie Howe he wants to leave Liverpool confirmed," with Liverpool's sporting director Richard Hughes and CEO Michael Edwards confident of striking a deal. Another post noted that Isak is "currently waiting for Liverpool to make a bid," highlighting his keenness to join the Reds.

Newcastle's reluctance to sell remains a hurdle, with the Magpies eyeing replacements like Brentford's Yoane Wissa should Isak depart. However, Liverpool's financial prudence in recent years, coupled with potential sales, positions them to push for a deal that could reshape their attack.

As the transfer window intensifies, Liverpool's bold strategy signals their intent to dominate the Premier League once again. Whether they can prise Isak from Newcastle will be a defining saga in the weeks ahead.