A respected reporter has suggested that Liverpool’s chances of signing Alexander Isak during the current transfer window are now “highly unlikely.”
The Newcastle striker created major headlines earlier this week when he accused the club of breaking “promises” made to him, only for Newcastle to issue a firm response. The Magpies released a statement stressing that no agreement had ever been reached to let the 25-year-old leave.
Manager Eddie Howe later acknowledged that he had spoken with Isak about his future towards the end of last season. Those comments naturally drew attention from Liverpool supporters closely monitoring the Swede’s situation.
Newcastle’s Stance Hardens
In his Inside Football column for The Independent, Miguel Delaney explained that Newcastle were initially willing to take a pragmatic approach to Isak’s future. However, the striker’s attempts to push for an exit have instead made the club more determined to hold firm.
Delaney wrote that players often agitate for transfers because “they know it generally works.” Clubs typically prefer not to keep an unsettled footballer, though they still want full value in return. He compared Isak’s case to Brentford forward Yoane Wissa, who has used a similar strategy.
The journalist added that while this tactic is often described as “player power,” the reality is that players have only brief windows of leverage. If Isak remains a Newcastle player when the transfer deadline passes on September 2, he may find himself with little influence left.
A Costly Misstep for Isak?
Delaney argued that Isak’s biggest mistake was turning what had been a business matter into an emotional standoff. Newcastle were previously open to compromise, but his approach has hurt their pride. As a result, Liverpool’s chances of securing the striker appear slim.
From Newcastle’s perspective, the reluctance is understandable. Isak scored 27 goals last season and has 62 in 109 appearances for the club, making him a vital asset. Losing him, especially on the player’s terms rather than the club’s, is something the Magpies are desperate to avoid.
Liverpool Running Out of Time
Liverpool are reportedly prepared to offer around £120 million for the Swedish international, but that figure could fall if his form dips or if he remains frozen out at St James’ Park. There is also the risk that forcing him to stay against his will could damage morale within Howe’s squad.
With the transfer deadline just over a week away, Liverpool’s hopes of landing Isak are fading quickly. Newcastle remain unwilling to give in to the striker’s push for an exit, though the Reds will continue to monitor the situation until the very last moment.
This transfer saga, however, is far from finished.
