Alexander Isak to Liverpool transfer latest as Newcastle star's agent makes bombshell statement

Alexander Isak to Liverpool transfer latest as Newcastle star's agent makes bombshell statement

All the latest Liverpool transfer news as Arne Slot looks to get his hands on a new striker

Alexander Isak's agent has spoken out amid interest from Liverpool (Image: Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images )

Gonzalo Gaitan has provided an update on his client Alexander Isak's future. The Newcastle United striker has been heavily linked with a move to Anfield this summer as Arne Slot looks to bolster his attacking options.

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The ECHO understands that Isak was once regarded as a leading target for Liverpool as they stepped up attempts to strengthen their frontline. The Reds have long been admirers of the 25-year-old following his impressive performances in the Premier League.

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The Magpies have been steadfast in their insistence that they do not want, or need, to sell Isak this summer. In the meantime, Newcastle had started bidding for Hugo Ekitike, who was another forward toward the top of Slot's shortlist.

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The Reds have since turned their attention to the Eintracht Frankfurt ace, who has a €100 million (£86m) price tag. So, with that being said, the ECHO has rounded up everything you need to know about Isak and a potential transfer to Liverpool.

Isak's agent drops bombshell statement

Gaitan has provided an update on Isak's future. Speaking to Saudi Arabian publication Arriyadiyah, the Sweden international's agent said: "We are indeed studying and analysing all options, and we may be close to finalising the next step for the player."

Howe explains Isak absence vs Celtic

Speaking to reporters following Newcastle's pre-season friendly against Celtic over the weekend, Howe explained why Isak was absent from the game. As quoted by our colleagues at the Chronicle, the Magpies boss said: "It was my decision. I decided to send him home due to all the speculation around him."

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Howe added: "The last thing he wanted was to be sat in the stands watching. That wasn't fair to him. But I am confident he will be a Newcastle United player come the end of this window."

When asked if Isak will definitely stay at St. James Park this summer, the Newcastle manager said: "It's difficult for me to give 100 per cent clarity on any player. Alex is happy at Newcastle; he loves the players, the staff, the team. I'm confident he'll be here at the start of the season."

Newcastle stance on Liverpool approach clear

While Howe couldn't guarantee that Isak will stay at Newcastle, he claimed that he's had a 'strong' message from the owners. When asked if his will to keep the Swede is shared across the football club, the Magpies boss told the Chronicle: "Absolutely.

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"There is nobody who feels any differently from board to staff to players. We value his qualities and him as a person. The desire is strong."

Howe added: "Finances play a big part, anyone who doesn't say that is deluded. It would be wrong to put that on each and every player, each situation is different. But we can't and aren't the biggest payers in the league because we don't generate the most income.

"So we have to fall in line with PSR and be very smart with what we do. We have to control the wages of the players we have and that all plays a part in who we can attract."

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Howe intends to play Isak in the coming days. He said: "I absolutely expect Alex to be in Singapore and South Korea, and playing in the games over there. Absolutely, yeah. Is the desire to keep him right through the club? Absolutely, yeah, absolutely."

Ekitike impact on Isak deal

The ECHO understands that Liverpool are close to reaching an agreement with Eintracht Frankfurt for Ekitike. The Premier League champions are currently putting the finishing touches to a second bid that they hope will be sufficient to make the 23-year-old striker their latest acquisition.

It's understood that the Bundesliga outfit rejected an offer worth €80m (£69.4m) from Newcastle last week; they want close to €100m (£86m). The Reds are hopeful of reaching a compromise on a fee in the region of €90m to €95m (£78m to £82m).

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The ECHO understands that personal terms have already been agreed over a long-term contract. Ekitike was an unused substitute during Eintracht Frankfurt's pre-season friendly against FSV Frankfurt on Saturday.

Interestingly, the BBC reported over the weekend that, even if Liverpool secure a move for Ekitike 'you can expect Liverpool's interest in Isak to remain'.

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