Alexander Isak deal CLOSER as club makes significant step
The Swede, 25, still has another three years of his Newcastle contract left to run - suggesting that the Magpies are in no immediate danger of losing him.
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But the landscape has changed dramatically over the last few days. The Geordies are facing an uphill battle to keep Isak - and Liverpool are lying in wait.
It's been reported by various reliable sources that Isak has effectively handed in a transfer request - and would like to explore a move to Liverpool.
Newcastle draw up list of Isak replacements
In any case, even if he were to stay, Newcastle couldn't afford his new contract demands. Isak wants £300k per week - a huge increase on his current pay packet of £120k.
It's looking inevitable that Liverpool are going to test the North East side with a British record bid - up to £130m - and then the focus for Eddie Howe will be on strengthening his frontline.
Liverpool have taken their preferred Isak replacement in Hugo Ekitike. Richard Hughes swooped in to complete an unfussy deal for a long-term target before Newcastle even knew what hit them.
There are increasing signs that the Toon are preparing to move on from Isak with a seven-strong shortlist of replacements being drawn up at St. James' Park.
Sesko leads the way for NUFC
That's according to a new report in TBR Football, which claims Newcastle have started the process of replacing Isak. One of the following players will likely succeed Isak - who will then be free to take up his position as Liverpool's new centre-forward.
Benjamin Sesko - the RB Leipzig striker who has been shopped around to all the top sides this summer without having yet secured a move away.
Lois Openda - his Leipzig club mate whose playing style has little in common with Isak but who could be available as the Red Bull club cut costs.
Yoan Wissa - a long-term Newcastle target currently starring for Brentford. The problem here is that Tottenham - under Thomas Frank - could yet pip Newcastle at the post.
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Newcastle's move makes Isak's departure to Liverpool inevitable
Samu Aghehowa - the young Spaniard who has made rapid progress early in his career at FC Porto.
Ollie Watkins - Aston Villa's centre-forward was also reported to be on the list for Liverpool. Nicolas Jackson - a one-time Richard Hughes favourite who almost signed for the Scot at Bournemouth. It doesn't appear he's got a future at Chelsea.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin - a budget option given DCL is out of contract at Everton but he comes with big injury risks. Newcastle have been jolted into drawing up a shortlist on little notice given how quickly developments have taken place.
It's clear the club have been blindsided by Isak's demand to leave - emphasising that they were really not prepared for the momentum which is coming with this proposed transfer.
But now the planning phase is underway and the Magpies are clearly preparing for his departure so we could see Newcastle sanction a move for Isak very soon.
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