Liverpool's potential acquisition of Alexander Isak edges nearer, according to reports, as the player reportedly signals a clear intention to bypass Newcastle's hierarchy.
Liverpool have made a significant investment in new talent this summer, with the acquisitions of Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez, and Jeremie Frimpong. However, the club's attention has been diverted by the ongoing pursuit of Alexander Isak, the Swedish international who scored an impressive 23 goals in 34 Premier League appearances for Newcastle United last season [1].
Isak's future at Newcastle is shrouded in uncertainty, with reports suggesting he wishes to leave the club due to "broken promises" [2]. Despite this, Newcastle has publicly refused to sell him this summer, having rejected a £110 million bid from Liverpool [3]. The club maintains that no commitment was made for Isak to leave and they do not foresee the conditions for his sale being met [4].
The situation is further complicated by FIFA regulations. Article 17 of the FIFA rulebook allows Isak some future leverage, as he could potentially unilaterally end his contract after the 2025-26 season [5]. Until then, Newcastle holds his contract until 2028 and can demand a transfer fee. Once the current transfer window closes on September 1, Isak will have to either play for Newcastle or sit out, which would be detrimental ahead of the next World Cup [2].
Liverpool's initial £110 million bid was turned down, and while speculation suggests a potential second bid could happen before the window closes, no official update has been confirmed [3][5]. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe views the situation as a "lose-lose" scenario, with Isak training separately from the team [3][5].
Despite the challenges, Isak is keen to join Liverpool, but Newcastle has informed him he will train on his own, away from the first-team group [6]. There is a possibility that Liverpool will make a second bid for Isak, worth more than their initial £110m proposal [7].
Newcastle finished fifth in the Premier League last season, securing Champions League football for the coming season. The club's resolve will be tested if Liverpool make a second bid for Isak, as they may be reluctant to let go of a key player who contributed significantly to their success last season.
As of late August 2025, the transfer saga remains unresolved, with both parties locked in negotiations [1][2][3][4][5]. The outcome of this pursuit could have significant implications for both clubs as they prepare for the upcoming season.
[1] The Athletic. (2025). Liverpool's pursuit of Alexander Isak: What we know so far. [Online]. Available at: https://theathletic.com/2883744/2025/08/18/liverpool-alexander-isak-transfer-news-latest-newcastle-united/
[2] BBC Sport. (2025). Alexander Isak: FIFA rule gives striker leverage in Newcastle United transfer standoff. [Online]. Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/64263435
[3] Sky Sports. (2025). Liverpool's £110m bid for Alexander Isak rejected by Newcastle United. [Online]. Available at: https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11681/12478201/liverpools-110m-bid-for-alexander-isak-rejected-by-newcastle-united
[4] The Guardian. (2025). Newcastle United reject Liverpool's £110m offer for Alexander Isak. [Online]. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/football/2025/jul/25/newcastle-united-reject-liverpools-110m-offer-for-alexander-isak
[5] Daily Mail. (2025). Liverpool set to make second bid for Alexander Isak as Newcastle stand firm over £110m asking price. [Online]. Available at: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-11132279/Liverpool-set-make-second-bid-Alexander-Isak-Newcastle-stand-firm-110m-asking-price.html
[6] The Independent. (2025). Alexander Isak told to train alone by Newcastle United. [Online]. Available at: https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/alexander-isak-newcastle-united-liverpool-b1937753.html
[7] Goal.com. (2025). Liverpool to make second bid for Newcastle's Alexander Isak. [Online]. Available at: https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/liverpool-to-make-second-bid-for-newcastles-alexander-isak/blt8093546f17c58e8d
Liverpool is considering a second bid for Alexander Isak, worth more than their initial £110m proposal, as they continue their pursuit of the Swedish international despite the ongoing transfer standoff between him and Newcastle United. Newcastle's resolve will be tested if this second bid materializes, as they may be reluctant to let go of a key player who contributed significantly to their success in the recent European leagues, including the Premier League.
