Newcastle United`s Saudi ownership is reportedly standing firm on its decision not to sell star striker Alexander Isak, even if the player expresses a desire to move to Liverpool.
The Magpies are emphatic that the Swedish forward, valued at £120 million, is not available for transfer at any price. This declaration comes despite recent interest from the Premier League champions in the 27-goal top scorer from last season.
Reportedly, Isak`s representatives are still dissatisfied with the lack of progress on a new contract extension that would keep him at St James` Park. This unresolved situation has, in turn, given Liverpool an opportunity to consider luring the player.
Amidst this ongoing standoff, Arne Slot`s Reds have reportedly intercepted Newcastle`s attempt to acquire Hugo Ekitike from Frankfurt. Newcastle had initially targeted Ekitike to potentially partner with Isak.
On Tuesday, the Bundesliga club rejected Newcastle`s £70 million offer for Ekitike. However, Liverpool is now in active discussions, believing that a fee closer to £80 million will secure the French talent, who has reportedly already agreed to a six-year contract with the Merseyside club.
Newcastle chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan is providing strong backing to head coach Eddie Howe, steadfastly refusing to sell Isak, despite the potential for a British record transfer fee.
Isak`s camp expressed disappointment 12 months ago when a promised pay raise from his current £130,000-a-week, made by the Magpies` former co-owners Amanda Staveley and Mehrdad Ghodoussi, did not materialize as anticipated.
Former sporting director Paul Mitchell reportedly put these negotiations on hold, believing the player was already adequately compensated under his existing contract, which runs until 2028.
Despite Mitchell`s subsequent departure, there has been no significant progress on a new deal for Isak, leaving his long-term commitment to the club uncertain.
In an effort to secure his future, Newcastle is reportedly prepared to break its wage ceiling and make him the highest-paid player in their history, offering a package exceeding £200,000 per week.
Isak is currently with the rest of the Newcastle squad at their pre-season training camp in Austria, preparing for the upcoming season.
It remains to be seen whether he will participate in Saturday`s friendly match against Celtic at Parkhead, as speculation around his future continues.
Meanwhile, Eddie Howe is reportedly prepared to contend with both Tottenham and Nottingham Forest for Brentford`s 28-year-old striker, Yoane Wissa.
The Bees are reportedly seeking around £40 million for the Congolese striker, who has only one year remaining on his current contract. They have already rejected a £25 million offer from Nottingham Forest.
Sources indicate that a fee of approximately £30 million could be enough for the Magpies to acquire the Brentford star, who impressively scored 19 goals last season.
