Newcastle United are preparing for the departure of Alexander Isak as interest from Liverpool intensifies, with the club already accelerating plans to identify a replacement before sanctioning his exit.
Isak, who is of Swedish-Eritrean heritage, has been central to the Magpies’ attack since his arrival, but his determination to secure a move to Anfield has created growing unease at St James’ Park.
The forward has made clear his desire to leave, and insiders suggest his stance has become a distraction to Newcastle’s early-season preparations.
The Magpies opened their Premier League campaign with a goalless draw against Aston Villa, a result that underscored the absence of a reliable finisher amid the uncertainty surrounding Isak’s future.
While the club initially resisted Liverpool’s approaches, senior figures are now beginning to accept that cashing in may serve their best interests, provided a suitable replacement is secured.
Liverpool, fresh from a 4–2 victory over Bournemouth on Friday night, remain determined to bolster their attack with Isak and have reassured the 25-year-old that he is a key target.
However, Newcastle are standing firm on their valuation, with the Reds expected to increase their original £110 million offer to unlock negotiations.
Manager Eddie Howe and the recruitment team are pushing ahead with efforts to secure a forward before any agreement is finalised.
The club believes that selling Isak without a replacement in place could severely weaken their campaign ambitions, particularly with European fixtures looming later in the season.
The drawn-out saga has cast a shadow over Newcastle’s build-up to the campaign, with officials admitting it has disrupted focus both on and off the pitch.
