Liverpool given fresh hope in Alexander Isak chase as Newcastle officially give striker cold shoulder: report

Liverpool’s pursuit of Alexander Isak has taken a dramatic twist as fresh reports suggest Newcastle United are now officially distancing themselves from their record signing. With tensions mounting between the Swedish striker and the club’s hierarchy, the Reds may have a clear path to reignite negotiations and secure a marquee forward before the summer window slams shut.

Last week, Liverpool reportedly had a £110 million bid turned down by the Magpies. However, with Newcastle now preparing to offload players in order to balance their books and refresh their squad, Isak’s future remains up in the air. Newcastle are believed to be open to a sale if they can secure a suitable replacement, which has left the door slightly ajar for Jurgen Klopp’s side.

Isak, who is currently recovering from a thigh injury, returned to Newcastle earlier this week but has been training separately from the main squad. He was previously working with private coaches at his former club Real Sociedad’s training complex during Newcastle’s pre-season tour in Asia. His absence on that tour was reportedly unauthorized, sparking concerns behind the scenes.

Manager Eddie Howe has since issued a warning to the 25-year-old striker, making it clear that his reintegration into the team will not be automatic. “You have to earn the right to train with us,” Howe said during the tour. “He’s like any other player — we expect professionalism, commitment, and unity. Anything less is unacceptable.”

Sources close to the club have indicated that Isak was asked to report separately from the rest of the team and is expected to train solo until further notice. The separation appears to be more than just precautionary for injury recovery — it’s now a clear statement of disciplinary action.

Meanwhile, Newcastle’s hopes of signing Benjamin Šeško from RB Leipzig as a potential Isak replacement seem to be fading. The Slovenian forward has reportedly chosen Manchester United as his preferred destination, leaving the Magpies scrambling for alternatives in the final weeks of the window.

The uncertainty surrounding Isak has significant implications for Liverpool. The Anfield club is still monitoring Darwin Núñez’s situation closely, with recent reports linking the Uruguayan forward to a possible exit. If Núñez leaves, Isak would be Liverpool’s ideal replacement due to his pace, physical presence, and proven Premier League experience.

Darwin Núñez’s potential move to Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal could be the trigger Liverpool needs to push harder for Isak. With Newcastle now distancing themselves from the player, there is renewed hope at Anfield that an improved bid — likely closer to the £150 million valuation — could seal the deal.

The rift between Isak and Newcastle, however, may not be easily mended. Despite his exceptional performances last season, where he scored crucial goals and often carried the attack, the relationship appears to have soured. Club insiders suggest that Isak’s refusal to travel with the squad was the tipping point.

It’s an unfortunate fall from grace for a player who arrived at Newcastle with immense fanfare and broke the club’s transfer record. While his performances have largely met expectations, his recent behavior and decisions have sparked concerns about his long-term future at St. James’ Park.

Liverpool, on the other hand, remain quietly optimistic. Sources close to the club have confirmed that internal discussions about a second bid are already underway. Klopp is believed to be a huge admirer of Isak and sees him as the perfect fit for Liverpool’s evolving attacking structure.

As the clock ticks down on the summer window, all eyes are on Anfield and St. James’ Park. Will Newcastle hold firm, or will financial and internal pressure force their hand? And can Liverpool finally land their long-term No. 9 target? The next few days could shape the future of both clubs.