Liverpool handed clear run at Alexander Isak transfer as Arsenal and Chelsea stance emerges
Alexander Isak has opened the door to a sensational British-record transfer to Liverpool after informing Newcastle that he wants to explore a move away from St James' Park. Isak did not travel with the Magpies to Singapore yesterday for their pre-season tour, though the club insist his omission was due to a thigh issue.
However, it's understood the Swede asked to be left behind after also missing Saturday's 4-0 friendly defeat at Celtic. Liverpool retain an interest and will now consider a fresh approach after their initial enquiry was knocked back around 10 days ago.
The big-spending Reds, who have already splashed just shy of £300m on new arrivals after pipping Newcastle to Hugo Ekitike, will likely require sales to present a formal bid.
Luis Diaz is wanted by Bayern Munich and is keen to join the German giants while Darwin Nunez, Harvey Elliott, Federico Chiesa and Tyler Morton remain possible departures before next month's transfer deadline.
PIF-owned Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal are also courting Isak, who has rejected the chance to sign a new deal with Newcastle, and would be willing to offer the 25-year-old an eye-watering contract worth up to £500,000 per week including bonuses.
Earlier in the year, Arsenal initially had Isak top of their summer wish-list but the Gunners - much like other suitors - did not feel he was attainable after Newcastle secured Champions League qualification and they began to lay the groundwork on other targets, instead.
Mikel Arteta's side are now in the process of finalising a £63.7m deal for Sporting CP's Viktor Gyokeres, who is finally expected to undergo a medical in the coming days after agreeing a five-year contract at the Emirates.
Manchester United have also ruled out a swoop for Isak while Chelsea, who made an enquiry last summer, are currently prioritising the arrivals of RB Leipzig attacking midfielder Xavi Simons and Ajax defender Jorrel Hato after landing Liam Delap and Joao Pedro.
Sources at Stamford Bridge have poured cold water on the prospect of a swoop for the Sweden international despite appreciation for the player.
Newcastle remain determined to keep Isak, though his bombshell power play could now force their hand. The Magpies value the ex-Real Sociedad striker at around £150m.
Meanwhile, Eddie Howe's side remain in talks with Brentford over a swoop for £40m-rated Yoane Wissa. Eddie Howe's interest in Wissa is unrelated to Isak's future and Newcastle have already had an opening offer worth in the region of £25m rejected for the DR Congo international.
It's believed Newcastle are now already exploring other forward targets in anticipation that Isak could depart.
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