Alexander Isak asks to leave Newcastle as Liverpool consider stunning transfer

Newcastle United could be bracing for one of the Premier League’s most sensational summer transfer sagas, as star striker Alexander Isak is reportedly weighing up his future at St. James’ Park. The Swedish international has expressed interest in leaving the club, with Liverpool emerging as serious contenders to secure his signature.

On Thursday morning, Newcastle confirmed Isak would not travel with the squad for their pre-season tour of Singapore and South Korea. While the official reason cited is a minor thigh injury, speculation has intensified following reports that the striker has privately communicated his desire to explore a move away from the club.

According to the Daily Mail, the Magpies have been made aware of Liverpool’s growing interest and may soon face a formal offer that could break British transfer records. Sources suggest the Merseyside giants are willing to launch a bid exceeding £120 million — Newcastle’s valuation of the 25-year-old forward — a fee that would eclipse previous top-flight transfers.

Isak’s impressive numbers last season—27 goals in just 42 appearances across all competitions—have made him a standout figure in English football. His combination of pace, technique, and composure in front of goal has attracted attention from several elite clubs across Europe and the Middle East.

Despite Newcastle’s insistence that Isak is not for sale, contract negotiations have stalled. Talks of a lucrative new deal were first reported over a year ago, but no formal agreement has been reached. With just three years remaining on his current contract, the situation places Newcastle in a difficult position: hold firm and risk unrest in the squad, or entertain offers that reflect the striker’s rising market value.

Under the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules, Newcastle are not compelled to sell. Financially, they remain stable and have room to manoeuvre. But the question now is whether they can afford to retain a player whose ambitions appear to lie elsewhere.

Liverpool, meanwhile, are gearing up for a transformative summer. After already spending more than £250 million to strengthen their squad, adding Isak would be both a statement signing and a strategic move to bolster their attacking options. The potential departure of Darwin Núñez or tactical reshuffling under manager Arne Slot might further explain their readiness to invest heavily in Isak.

Elsewhere, Arsenal had reportedly explored a move for the striker earlier in the window, but balked at Newcastle’s valuation and instead turned their focus to Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres. The Saudi Pro League has also expressed interest in Isak, joining a growing list of suitors that includes several clubs from mainland Europe — though it's Liverpool that now appear to be in pole position.

Newcastle fans, already dealing with mixed emotions after a bittersweet season of highs and near-misses, may soon see the club forced into a defining decision. Keep their talisman and face a potential contract standoff? Or cash in and re-invest in a squad with Champions League ambitions?

Whatever happens next, Alexander Isak’s summer saga is shaping up to be one of the biggest stories of the 2025 transfer window.