For the second time this summer, Liverpool are prepared to do something Jurgen Klopp said he’d never do, and it’s still not enough for Newcastle United over Alexander Isak.
Liverpool want to sign Isak but Newcastle United remain strong in their stance. The striker is simply not for sale this summer.
Indeed, Newcastle are annoyed at Liverpool after their approach for Isak, who still has three years to run on his contract at St James’ Park.
Reports from The Athletic’s David Ornstein suggested that Liverpool had communicated to Newcastle that they’d be willing to pay a British record £120million for Isak.
Following their £100m+ addition of Florian Wirtz earlier this summer, it is some statement of intent from the Anfield giants.
Still, even a bid of £120million is unlikely to be enough for Newcastle.
Meanwhile, it’s interesting to imagine what Klopp would make of it all.
Jurgen Klopp said he’d never spend £100m on one player
Speaking back in 2016, former Reds boss Klopp claimed he’d never spend close to £100million on a single player.
He was referencing Paul Pogba’s move to Manchester United from Juventus that summer for a reported £89million.
“I’d do it differently if I could spend that money,” he said (via ESPN).
“That is how everybody in football understands it. You always want to have the best, but building the group is necessary to be successful.
“Other clubs can go out and spend more money and collect top players. I want to do it differently. I would even do it differently if I could spend that money.”
How much Newcastle United want for Alexander Isak
There is no suggestion Newcastle would sell Isak at any price this summer.
Still, it’s hard to imagine £120million being anywhere near enough. The Sweden star is one of the best forwards in world football and the length of time left on his contract puts the club in a very strong position.
Newcastle value Isak at more than £150million, and there are no suggestions that Liverpool are prepared to go anywhere near that this summer.
At some point, Isak will leave the club. Newcastle, however, won’t be bullied into anything and will only allow him to go on their terms.
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