Liverpool ‘confident’ of beating Arsenal to sign Isak amid ‘major update’ on ‘record-breaking offer’

The summer transfer window is shaping up to deliver one of the most intense battles in recent memory, with Liverpool reportedly emerging as frontrunners in the race to sign Newcastle United’s prolific striker Alexander Isak.

The Swedish international has cemented his status as one of Europe’s most lethal forwards this season, netting 23 goals and providing five assists in just 33 appearances.

His contributions have been instrumental in Newcastle’s Carabao Cup triumph and their ongoing push for Champions League qualification—a resurgence that has inevitably put Europe’s elite clubs on high alert.

Newcastle find themselves in a precarious position as they brace for inevitable interest in their star man. While the Magpies were forced into a more cautious approach last summer amid Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) concerns, their financial footing appears stronger this time around.

Isak’s contract runs until 2028, and the club’s hierarchy has made it clear they will not entertain offers below the £100 million mark—a valuation that reflects both his world-class ability and his importance to Eddie Howe’s project.

According to sources close to the situation, Liverpool are increasingly optimistic about their chances of landing Isak ahead of Premier League rivals Arsenal. The Reds view the 25-year-old as their top attacking target and are prepared to shatter their transfer record—currently held by Darwin Núñez’s £85 million move from Benfica—to get the deal done.

Reports suggest that Newcastle could demand as much as £120 million for their talisman, a figure that Liverpool’s recruitment team seems willing to meet.

What makes Liverpool’s pursuit particularly intriguing is their willingness to include players in a potential swap deal to sweeten the agreement. Defender Joe Gomez, who Newcastle previously expressed interest in, has been mentioned as a possible makeweight, along with highly rated youngsters Jarell Quansah, Harvey Elliott, and Ben Doak.

However, the Reds have reportedly ruled out offering Núñez as part of any package, with Newcastle showing no desire to bring the Uruguayan to St. James’ Park.

Why Liverpool Believe They Can Outmuscle Arsenal

While Arsenal have long been linked with Isak, Liverpool’s confidence stems from their structured approach to the transfer. The club’s hierarchy has already laid the groundwork for a major summer overhaul, with contract extensions for Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk expected to be finalized during the international break. Securing the futures of these key veterans would provide stability, allowing Liverpool to focus their resources on landing a marquee striker.

Isak’s profile aligns perfectly with Liverpool’s attacking needs. His combination of pace, technical brilliance, and clinical finishing makes him an ideal successor to the Reds’ famed front three of Salah, Sadio Mané, and Roberto Firmino.

Moreover, his Premier League experience removes the adaptation period typically required for overseas signings—a factor that could prove decisive in a tight title race next season.

Despite Liverpool’s growing optimism, Newcastle remain determined to retain their prized asset. The club’s Saudi-backed ownership has grand ambitions, and losing Isak would represent a significant setback in their quest to establish themselves among England’s elite.

However, Financial Fair Play constraints could yet force their hand, particularly if a mammoth bid materializes.

For now, all eyes are on how this transfer saga unfolds. If Liverpool succeed in their pursuit, Isak’s arrival could herald a new era of dominance at Anfield. But with Arsenal lurking and Newcastle digging in their heels, this promises to be one of the summer’s most captivating narratives—a high-stakes battle that could reshape the Premier League’s balance of power.