According to British media, on 24/7, Isak informed Newcastle of his desire to leave the club to seek new challenges. Just hours earlier, Newcastle announced that the Swedish striker would not be joining their pre-season tour in Singapore and South Korea due to a thigh injury. Isak also missed Newcastle's 4-0 friendly loss to Celtic in Glasgow last weekend.

English football legend Alan Shearer deemed Newcastle's announcement laughable. "If they think people aren't going to see through that, it's disappointing. They should just tell the truth," the 54-year-old former striker said. "I understand it's a very difficult situation for the club, but that's the truth."

Alexander Isak celebrates a goal during Newcastle's 2-1 League Cup final victory over Liverpool on 16/3/2025. Photo: Reuters

Alexander Isak celebrates a goal during Newcastle's 2-1 League Cup final victory over Liverpool on 16/3/2025. Photo: Reuters

Isak was reportedly frustrated by Newcastle's refusal to negotiate when Liverpool expressed interest. Subsequently, Liverpool turned their attention to striker Hugo Ekitike, completing a $106 million deal.

Liverpool's admiration for Isak hasn't vanished despite securing Ekitike's signature, according to Sky Sports. While the Merseyside club is content with its current attacking options, this doesn't preclude a move for Isak should the opportunity arise.

A potential British record bid of £150 million (approximately $203 million) might sway Newcastle. The Magpies have also begun searching for a top-tier replacement for Isak, with RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko, previously targeted by Arsenal, as their primary target.

Despite spending over $400 million since the transfer window opened, Liverpool could still afford Isak thanks to the sustainable financial management strategy employed by their American owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), over the years, Sky Sports reports. Liverpool could potentially spend £500 million ($675 million) this summer while remaining compliant with the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).

Hugo Ekitike and manager Arne Slot during a Liverpool training session in Hong Kong on 24/7. Photo: Liverpool FC

Hugo Ekitike and manager Arne Slot during a Liverpool training session in Hong Kong on 24/7. Photo: Liverpool FC

This financial stability stems from the club's efficient operations. In the summer of 2024, Liverpool spent only $14 million to acquire Federico Chiesa while generating around $80 million from player sales. This surplus is now bolstering the club's spending power in the summer of 2025.

Liverpool's revenue reached $928 million in their most recent financial report. This figure is projected to increase significantly due to commercial and sporting success, along with bonuses from commercial partnerships.

Liverpool anticipates generating $200 million from the potential sales of Luis Diaz, Darwin Nunez, and Harvey Elliott. This would further pave the way for Isak's arrival.

Compiled by Hong Duy