Alexander Isak to Liverpool is OFF! Newcastle's Saudi owners make intervention to block sale of star striker despite Reds' willingness to lodge record £130m bid

Liverpool made a bold approach for Alexander Isak, hoping to land him with a record-breaking £130m bid. However, Newcastle’s Saudi owners have categorically refused to sell their top scorer, as per The Sun, regardless of the offer or the player’s interest. Talks between the clubs have not progressed, and the Magpies are now preparing a bumper new contract for the Swede.

Isak scored 27 goals last season and has become a cornerstone of Eddie Howe’s Newcastle project. Despite frustrations over a delayed pay rise, the club now plans to make him their highest-paid player in history. Chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan is firmly backing Howe and aiming to build a squad capable of sustained success, not sell its crown jewels.

Liverpool’s rejection has prompted the Reds to pivot towards Hugo Ekitike, a target they’ve now hijacked from Newcastle’s radar. Meanwhile, Isak’s camp remain wary due to broken promises by former directors, which originally paused his contract extension talks. Still, Newcastle are pushing forward with a deal worth over £200,000 a week to resolve any lingering tension.

Newcastle will now focus on securing Isak’s long-term commitment with a lucrative new deal. Liverpool, meanwhile, are likely to finalise talks with Ekitike’s camp as an alternative striking option. For Isak, all eyes are on whether he’ll accept the Magpies’ renewed terms — or push back again later this summer.