Liverpool fans are riding a wave of euphoria as reports swirl that a blockbuster transfer for Newcastle United’s star striker Alexander Isak is nearing completion.
The 25-year-old Swede, who bagged 23 Premier League goals last season, has been the subject of intense speculation, and now his agent, Gonzalo Gaitan, has sent Anfield into overdrive by confirming to Saudi outlet Arriyadiyah, “We are already studying and analysing all options, and we may be close to finalising the next step for the player.” While Gaitan didn’t explicitly name Liverpool, the statement has been widely interpreted as a strong hint that a move to the Reds is imminent, especially given Isak’s reported insistence on joining the Premier League champions.
The saga has taken several twists, with Liverpool’s initial £110m bid rejected by Newcastle, who are holding out for a staggering £150m, potentially a British record. Isak has made his intentions clear, reportedly skipping Newcastle’s pre-season tour of Asia, training alone at Real Sociedad, and rejecting a new contract offer from the Magpies. Posts on X from sources like @AnfieldSector and @FabrizioRomano amplify the excitement, stating that Isak “wants the Liverpool move” and that the deal “remains absolutely on.” Adding fuel to the fire, Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg claims an agreement between Isak and Liverpool until 2031 is “100 percent done,” with only Newcastle’s approval standing in the way.
Liverpool’s financial position strengthens their hand. The club has raised over £120m from sales of players like Luis Diaz, Caoimhin Kelleher, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Jarell Quansah, plus £46.2m from Darwin Nunez’s transfer to Al-Hilal, a club linked to Newcastle through Saudi ownership. This has led to speculation that the Nunez funds could indirectly facilitate Isak’s move. Reports also suggest Liverpool are preparing a second bid, possibly around €161.7m, to meet Newcastle’s demands. Journalist David Ornstein has backed Isak to complete the transfer before the September 1 deadline, citing the player’s clear preference for Anfield.
Newcastle’s predicament is compounded by their failure to secure a replacement, with pursuits of players like Benjamin Sesko falling through. This has left fans and manager Eddie Howe frustrated, with Howe admitting Isak’s future isn’t fully in his control. Meanwhile, some Liverpool supporters, echoing Jamie Carragher’s concerns, question the need for another striker after the £79m signing of Hugo Ekitike, but Isak’s elite finishing and versatility make him a dream fit for Arne Slot’s system. Social media is ablaze with reactions, from @rafiki_LFC’s “ITS HAPPENINGGGGG” to @HazJG94 urging Liverpool to “go all out.” As the transfer window clock ticks down, the prospect of Isak donning the red of Liverpool has Anfield buzzing with anticipation, though Newcastle’s stub𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐧 stance could yet prolong the drama.