Liverpool’s Bold Move for Alexander Isak: A Dream or a Distant Reality?
Liverpool’s pursuit of Alexander Isak is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing transfer sagas of the summer. According to renowned football journalist David Ornstein, the Reds will need to table a staggering offer just to “start a conversation” with Newcastle United for the Swedish sensation.
The Merseyside club has already made waves in the transfer market, securing the services of Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen for £29m and £116m respectively. Meanwhile, Milos Kerkez is on the verge of completing his £40m move from Bournemouth, adding depth to Liverpool’s defensive options.
With Darwin Nunez reportedly nearing a switch to Napoli, sporting director Richard Hughes is on the hunt for a new striker. While names like Viktor Gyokores and Hugo Ekitike have been floated, Isak remains Liverpool’s top target. However, prising him away from Newcastle is no easy feat.
Ornstein, speaking on The Athletic’s podcast, emphasised Newcastle’s strong position in negotiations. “Isak has over three years left on his contract and is already well compensated. The club is ready to offer more, as he is central to their ambitious Saudi-led project,” he revealed.
The 25-year-old forward has been instrumental in Newcastle’s recent success, helping them secure Champions League football and ending a long trophy drought. Ornstein added, “From Isak’s perspective, he seems content. He’s playing top-level football, and his smile says it all.”
However, if Liverpool are serious about landing their man, they may need to break the bank. Ornstein suggested it could take an offer in the region of £150m just to initiate talks. “There’s no indication of any developments despite the rumours. Liverpool might try, but success is far from guaranteed,” he cautioned.
Defensive Reinforcements on the Horizon?
While the focus remains on Isak, Liverpool are also bolstering their backline. Ibrahima Konate’s future is uncertain after he rejected a contract offer, prompting the club to explore options like Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi. Former Premier League CEO Keith Wyness believes Guehi could be a “fantastic signing” for the Reds.
“Guehy is keen on the move, and Palace are open to cashing in with his contract winding down. If Liverpool can secure him, it could be a repeat of the Virgil van Dijk success story,” Wyness said. He added, “The prospect of Guehi partnering Van Dijk is frankly frightening for opponents.”
What’s Next for Liverpool?
As the summer window heats up, Liverpool’s ambitions are clear. While the pursuit of Isak remains a long shot, the club is making strategic moves to strengthen both their attack and defence. Whether they can pull off these blockbuster deals remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – the Reds are not shying away from big challenges.
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