Still hope for Liverpool?! How Newcastle could be convinced to sell Alexander Isak - but blockbuster transfer faces two big problems

The reigning Premier League champions saw their lack of central striking options highlighted in the 2025 Community Shield, with Arne Slot’s side missing an attacking focal point after taking Hugo Ekitike - who had opened the scoring against Crystal Palace - off in the second half at Wembley.

The Reds have sold Darwin Nunez to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, meaning that they are short of cover in the No.9 department. A record-breaking raid on Newcastle for Sweden international Isak continues to be mooted.

Isak is said to have tabled a transfer request at St. James’ Park, but the Magpies remain understandably reluctant to part with their prized asset. A deal could still be done before the next deadline passes, but the stars need to align on Merseyside and Tyneside in order for that to happen.

According to The Telegraph, Newcastle will need to sign two strikers “of suitable quality” before entering into Isak sale talks. Liverpool must also stump up a British transfer record £150 million ($202m) in order to land the prolific 25-year-old.

It is considered unlikely that either of those boxes will be ticked, with the Magpies not convinced that forwards of the desired quality are still on the market - having missed out on several targets - while Liverpool are unwilling to dig so deep in order to secure the signature of a domestic rival.