Liverpool insiders are reportedly growing in confidence that a blockbuster summer transfer for Alexander Isak could be a possibility. It is claimed that ‘speculation’ among key individuals within the game suggests a nine-figure deal for the Newcastle star is more achievable than initially anticipated.
Newcastle do not want to sell Isak, who has become one of Europe’s leading centre-forwards under Eddie Howe. He has scored 23 goals this season, close to matching his 25 from last term, and fired the Magpies to a stunning Carabao Cup triumph over Liverpool earlier this month. However, reports suggest that there is a minimum fee that will bring the Tyneside club to the negotiating table.
According to Give Me Sport, Newcastle have an internal valuation of £120million, which would make him the most expensive Premier League transfer of all time. Their potential qualification for the Champions League could also be crucial in deciding Isak’s future.
Securing elite European football for next season could persuade the 25-year-old to remain at St. James’ Park for another year. However, the report adds that he could push for an exit if Newcastle, who are sixth, are not in the Champions League. The striker wants to test himself at the very top of the game.
That, it is claimed, has seen Liverpool grow in confidence that a move can take place this summer. Private discussions have reportedly prompted Anfield insiders to believe that signing Isak is more achievable than they previously realised.
Barring a major slip-up, Liverpool will win the Premier League this season. Arne Slot’s side are 12 points clear of Arsenal with nine games remaining.
However, there remain at least a couple of positions where Liverpool can improve their starting 11. Centre-forward is one of them and Isak would be the ultimate addition. Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez have struggled for goals when they have started as the club’s No. 9 this season. If Mohamed Salah does not sign a new contract and departs, Slot will need to sign a prolific forward in the summer.
Arsenal have also been linked with Isak but the Gunners may need to be stricter with their budget than in previous years. Wide-ranging reports claim that they are close to sealing a £51m deal for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.
A cheaper alternative to Isak could therefore be targeted instead. RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike have been linked with moving to the Emirates Stadium.
Content Source: www.express.co.uk