According to The Athletic, whether Newcastle sells Isak depends on the 25-year-old striker's perspective. If he is determined to leave, the Magpies will negotiate a transfer fee. Otherwise, they are unwilling to sell the 1.92m-tall striker at any price.

Isak is Newcastle's key attacker, scoring 27 goals and providing six assists in 42 matches last season. This is also his second consecutive season scoring over 20 goals in the Premier League. Isak's contribution extends beyond goals, as he possesses strong hold-up play and creates opportunities for teammates. Former defender Jamie Carragher even considers Isak the best striker in the current Premier League, surpassing Erling Haaland.

Alexander Isak during Newcastle's match against Brighton at AMEX Stadium, Brighton, UK on 4/5/2025. Photo: *Reuters*

Liverpool, aiming to maintain their dominance after winning the Premier League last season, is not hesitant to spend on player acquisitions. They have already acquired attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz for $145 million, left-back Milos Kerkez for $54 million, and right-back Jeremie Frimpong for $46 million, bringing their total spending to $245 million, and they are not finished yet.

They have also sold three players: Jarell Quansah, Caoimhin Kelleher, and Trent Alexander-Arnold for a combined $69 million.

Due to the recent death of striker Diogo Jota, Liverpool needs a top-class replacement. If Isak chooses not to leave Newcastle, their alternative target is Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt. The French striker, two years younger than Isak, also possesses a tall, slender physique and a skillful playing style.

However, Liverpool will face competition from Newcastle for Ekitike. The Magpies intend to pair the 23-year-old with Isak and have offered Frankfurt $93 million. Negotiations between the two clubs are ongoing.

If Newcastle agrees to sell Isak for $160 million, he would become the fourth most expensive player in history, following Neymar ($253 million), Kylian Mbappe ($209 million), and Philippe Coutinho ($168 million). He would also become the most expensive signing in British football history. However, with Newcastle's Champions League qualification next season, they are likely to persuade Isak to stay.

Hoang An (*The Athletic, ESPN*)