The transfer saga surrounding Alexander Isak is heading for a dramatic finale, with Fabrizio Romano confirming the Newcastle striker’s firm desire to join Liverpool.
Despite Newcastle rejecting an opening bid of around £110m earlier in the summer, Liverpool have refused to pursue alternative targets. The Reds remain fully focused on Isak, who has made it clear he wants the move to Anfield.
Isak training alone amid growing tension
The Swedish forward has been training away from the first team and has refused to play for Newcastle as the saga drags on. Manager Eddie Howe admitted the uncertainty is damaging, calling for “clarity” on the situation, with PIF chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan even attending Newcastle’s defeat to Liverpool at St James’ Park as crunch talks continued.
“The ideal situation for everyone is clarity,” Howe said. “We want the narrative to change. His presence [Al-Rumayyan] was much appreciated from my perspective – he is the owner, he is the most important person in any decisions we make.”
Romano: Liverpool remain locked in
Speaking on his YouTube channel, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reiterated that Isak’s position is unwavering:
“Alexander Isak insists on his desire and his clear view – he wants to go to Liverpool. Despite the efforts of very important people at Newcastle, the message from the player and his agent is unchanged. He wants Liverpool.”
Romano added that Liverpool see Isak as a “perfect opportunity” and have not advanced talks with any other striker, even with the transfer window closing fast.
Liverpool’s ‘big chance’
“Liverpool remain totally focused on Isak,” Romano explained. “They consider him one of the best strikers available and a big chance in the market with no competition, because he is not negotiating with any other club. It’s their opportunity to get him.”
With Isak refusing to back down and Newcastle struggling to find a replacement, the stage is set for a tense conclusion to the window. Whether Liverpool will meet Newcastle’s £150m valuation remains to be seen – but one of the summer’s biggest transfer sagas looks set to go right down to deadline day.
