Stan Collymore has shared his verdict on Liverpool’s interest in signing Alexander Isak from Newcastle United this summer.
The Magpies’ stance is clear: Alexander Isak is not for sale. The only thing which would make them consider his exit is an offer of over £150million.
Newcastle United were rocked by the news that Isak had asked to leave the club amid serious interest from Liverpool. The 25-year-old was undoubtedly Newcastle’s star player last season, scoring 27 goals in all competitions, including two goals against Liverpool in the Premier League and Carabao Cup final.
Even if he does not leave this summer, Arne Slot’s side have done enough to unsettle the Swede and force the focus to be taken away from preparation for next season and making new signings.
Eddie Howe is hopeful Isak will be a Newcastle player next season, and that this situation will all just blow over, but it is fair to say this will be the story of the summer. With Liverpool hopeful of landing the striker, Stan Collymore has given his verdict on the deal, and what Newcastle fans must realise.
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Stan Collymore thinks Alexander Isak will join Liverpool from Newcastle United
Isak will not be part of Newcastle’s game against Arsenal on Sunday due to his omission from the Magpies’ squad that travelled to Asia.
There will be hope amongst the fanbase that Isak will be at St James’ Park for the pre-season friendlies against Espanyol and Atletico Madrid, but it remains to be seen.
Meanwhile, Collymore has given Newcastle fans a stiff reality check in his column for CaughtOffside.
“I can only see Alexander Isak joining Liverpool if he does leave Newcastle, which is now expected,” Collymore said.
“I think this has been something that’s been ongoing probably for 12 months or more. I think the expectation from Newcastle was that it was going to be next season that other clubs were going to bid.
“A lot of fans will want him to be sold abroad, but it doesn’t work like that. If the player says that they’re going to down tools unless you let me go to this specific club, it’s very, very difficult for the club.”
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Newcastle United must continue recruiting amid Alexander Isak exit talk
Newcastle are in a tricky situation this summer; the club must find a way to keep Isak happy on Tyneside while working on a replacement if he does end up leaving.
Geordie Boot Boys understand Newcastle are interested in signing Benjamin Sesko and Lois Openda, both from RB Leipzig, if Isak leaves. The most likely option looks to be Sesko, with talks already taking place over a move for the 22-year-old.
Elsewhere, Newcastle are in talks over a move for Yoane Wissa, with the 28-year-old likely to be a backup to Isak or whoever else comes in at striker. It is important that Newcastle keep working on these deals while the Isak speculation continues; they cannot let this possible mega deal impact their hopes for the summer, even if it derails their plans.
Howe is eager to improve multiple positions at Newcastle in the transfer window, not just striker. A centre-back and goalkeeper are top targets, while a replacement for Sean Longstaff also needs to be signed.
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