Isak Still Pushing for Liverpool Switch as Newcastle Brace for Busy End to Window

Alexander Isak remains intent on leaving Newcastle United for Liverpool before the transfer deadline on 1 September, Sport360NG reports.

According to The Athletic, the 25-year-old Sweden international is resolute in his stance and has no intention of playing for the Magpies again. While BBC Sport has not confirmed that claim, sources suggest his priority is still to secure a move to the Premier League champions.

Liverpool had a £110m offer for Isak turned down on 1 August and later indicated they were ready to step away from negotiations. The Reds have also intensified their pursuit of Crystal Palace captain and England defender Marc Guehi, who is also 25.

Following Newcastle’s pre-season defeat to Atletico Madrid, manager Eddie Howe admitted “everything is in play” regarding Isak’s future, but said it was “clear” the striker could not be part of his current plans. The forward is now expected to miss Saturday’s league opener at Aston Villa.

Isak sat out the club’s pre-season tour of the Far East with what was described as a minor thigh problem and instead trained alone at former club Real Sociedad before rejoining the squad in England last week. He scored 27 goals in 42 appearances last season and has three years left on his contract.

Newcastle’s attempts to bring in a replacement have so far been unsuccessful. Moves for Liam Delap, Benjamin Sesko and Hugo Ekitike all fell through, with the trio joining Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool respectively.

The Magpies are also monitoring Brentford forward Yoane Wissa, who left the Bees’ training camp in Portugal in July after expressing a desire to join Newcastle. The 28-year-old has since returned to training but is still open to a switch to St James’ Park if a deal is agreed.

Meanwhile, Howe’s side are on the verge of signing AC Milan defender Malick Thiaw. The 23-year-old German is expected to travel to Tyneside on Sunday evening to complete a £34.62m transfer.