I've had enough of Newcastle fans' whining about losing Alexander Isak - here's why the Saudi fanboys have no right to complain when he leaves, writes OLIVER HOLT
In other circumstances, it might be tempting to bemoan Isak's fecklessness after Newcastle gave him the platform to shine and their fans took him to their hearts and built their hopes for the future around him.
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Powys County Times
9 minutes ago
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Second bid for Benjamin Sesko could move forward closer to Newcastle switch
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Metro
9 minutes ago
- Metro
John Arne Riise reveals one concern over Liverpool's move for Alexander Isak
John Arne Riise says he would 'love' to see Alexander Isak join Liverpool this summer, but has some reservations about the club coughing up Newcastle's 'extremely high' asking price for the striker. Speculation over Isak's future had appeared to have cooled over the course of the summer, but there was a major twist last month as the forward informed Newcastle of his desire to explore a move away from St James' Park. Liverpool were quickly alerted to a potential deal and saw an opening offer of £110million plus add-ons knocked back by the Magpies, who are refusing to be bullied into an agreement for their prized possession. Isak was pictured training alone with former side Real Sociedad following the failed bid, with Newcastle boss Eddie Howe claiming the Swede had to 'earn the right' to join up with his squad again. And while Isak returned to training with the Toon on Monday, the Premier League champions are expected to return with a follow-up proposal for the 25-year-old attacker in due course. In The Mixer: Exclusive analysis, FPL tips and transfer talk sent straight to your inbox every week – click here and sign up before Friday to make sure you don't miss the first edition. It's understood Newcastle have identified RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko as their top target should Isak complete a switch to Anfield. 'It's been the talk of the summer. Some days you think, 'Yeah, he's going to sign,' and other days you think, 'No chance',' ex-Liverpool star Riise told 'What's exciting is his movement – he's quick, he's a great finisher, he's hungry. 'But you read so many stories from people who think they know everything, but they don't have the answers. 'Newcastle will be tough to convince. This one might come down to what Isak himself says to the club. But it's all about money, isn't it? Newcastle are in a strong position. They know clubs want him. 'At the same time, do you want to keep an unhappy player at your club? If they decide not to sell because the price isn't met, how will he perform next season for Newcastle? Because we all know he wants to leave.' But with Newcastle reportedly demanding an eye-watering fee of £150m for Isak, Riise questions whether paying such a price would be 'worth it' for Liverpool. 'I'd love to get him at Liverpool, but the price will be extremely high. If it's worth it? I don't know,' the 2005 Champions League winner added. 'It would be an amazing signing for Liverpool, but right now it looks difficult as they've already rejected so many offers. Time will tell!' Despite doubts over Isak's price, Riise is confident the Sweden international could prove to be Liverpool's 'missing link' up front should he wind up on Merseyside. 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The speed, sharpness, and quality here is another level — both in your team and your opposition. So it's a different ballgame. 'The money spent on him makes sense because every club wanted him. I think he fits perfectly in terms of vision, technique, and style. 'Even in pre-season, you could see how he's trying to find Mo Salah between the lines with his passing. 'That's why I think Isak would also be perfect – the connection between them would be special.' Riise is 'so excited' for the upcoming season and 'can't see anyone else' threatening Liverpool's defence of the Premier League title. More Trending He added: 'I'm so excited for this season. Honestly, I don't think I've been this excited about a Liverpool season before. 'Last year there were no big signings – but this year, even without winning the Premier League, the signings are unbelievable. 'Expectations are high – from the ex-players, the fans, and the whole football world. 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Darts presenter Emma Paton lands new job as Sky Sports announce plans for exciting show
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