Overview

• Alexander Isak has trained alone since being omitted from Newcastle’s season opener and remains outside the first-team setup as he pushes for a move.
• Newcastle United publicly insist on a roughly £150 million fee and say they will only part with their star striker once a replacement is secured.
• Liverpool’s initial offer of around £110–120 million was rejected and reports suggest they are prepared to raise their bid to about £140 million under a short response deadline.
• The Reds believe Newcastle must land a suitable successor before agreeing a deal, citing the Magpies’ unsuccessful pursuit of targets such as Hugo Ekitike, Benjamin Sesko and Liam Delap.
• Prominent figures from Wayne Rooney to Andy Carroll have questioned Isak’s refusal to train with his club, and rumors persist that Real Madrid could enter the race for the Sweden international.