Liverpool’s Isak pursuit heats up after £110m Newcastle rejection

Key Takeaways:

• On Saturday, Alexander Isak missed Newcastle’s opening Premier League fixture against Aston Villa due to transfer complications.
• Liverpool’s £110million bid for Isak earlier in August was rejected by Newcastle United, with no subsequent offers made so far.
• The Reds will visit St James’ Park for Newcastle’s first home match of the Premier League season in less than a week.

Ongoing Transfer Saga Surrounding Isak

The uncertainty surrounding Alexander Isak’s future at Newcastle United continues, with Henry Winter asserting that the striker should officially request a transfer if he is determined to exit the club. Despite his contract being far from expiry, Isak has not yet taken this step as speculation around a possible move to Liverpool dominates headlines.

Liverpool and Isak only want each other.

Liverpool aren’t looking at anyone else.

(@FabrizioRomano)

How romantic 🥹 Get it done! pic.twitter.com/WVoa09Ldgg

— The Kop Watch (@TheKopWatch) August 19, 2025

Isak, aged 25, was initially sidelined from Newcastle’s pre-season due to a thigh injury. However, the absence became protracted and eventually tied to his efforts to secure a transfer to Liverpool. Reports indicate that Isak has begun training away from the main squad and is said to have declared he has no intention of representing Eddie Howe’s team again.

His absence extended to Saturday’s Premier League opener versus Aston Villa, an omission that may prompt disciplinary action from the club.

Liverpool’s Approach Criticised

Discussing the situation on talkSPORT, Henry Winter criticised both player and suitor, stating: “Two things should happen here. First, he should put in a transfer request,” while questioning whether Isak merits any financial compensation from Newcastle at this point in his contract: “Absolutely shouldn’t do.”

Liverpool’s transfer strategy has also come under scrutiny. Early this month, Liverpool tabled a £110million offer for Isak, which Newcastle promptly declined. Since then, Liverpool have refrained from submitting a new bid, reportedly awaiting a signal that Newcastle are prepared to negotiate. Winter remarked on Liverpool’s tactics, describing the £110million offer as insufficient, especially in a transfer market where “fairly decent players move for £45-60m,” and insisting Isak deserves higher valuation.

He added that Liverpool’s approach is tarnishing the start of the season, despite what has generally been considered a successful transfer window, and called for greater respect towards both Newcastle United and the player.

Upcoming Fixture and Manager Perspectives

Liverpool, managed by Arne Slot, are set to travel to St James’ Park for their second Premier League match of the campaign, which will serve as Newcastle’s home debut this season. The impending encounter has heightened anticipation, with Newcastle manager Eddie Howe stating: “I think it’s always spicy against Liverpool, there’s a history with the fixture anyway,” and expressing optimism about his side’s readiness following their recent match.