Newcastle have now find £50m Isak replacement that can trigger Liverpool transfer

The stalemate surrounding Alexander Isak’s future at Newcastle United may finally be nearing resolution, with Paris Saint-Germain striker Gonçalo Ramos emerging as the club’s preferred replacement.

The Magpies’ hierarchy has identified the Portuguese international as the ideal candidate to fill the void should their wantaway star complete his anticipated move to Liverpool.

Isak’s exile from first-team activities continues as the Swedish striker maintains his refusal to train with the squad following Liverpool’s initial £110 million bid.

Eddie Howe addressed the ongoing situation with measured diplomacy ahead of Newcastle’s Premier League opener against Aston Villa, stating: “My relationship with Alex remains strong, but the situation remains unchanged. Our focus must be on the players committed to our project.”

The 25-year-old’s departure seemed imminent when Benjamin Šeško appeared destined for Tyneside, only for the Slovenian to opt for Manchester United instead.

This twist of fate has forced Newcastle to explore alternative options, with Ramos now topping their shortlist.

The PSG forward’s impressive record of 34 goals in 34 starts since arriving from Benfica makes him a compelling candidate, particularly at a reported £50 million valuation – significantly less than the £150 million Newcastle demand for Isak.

Newcastle’s prior knowledge of Ramos adds intrigue to the potential deal. The Magpies’ scouting team monitored the 23-year-old during his Benfica days, witnessing firsthand his capabilities when he scored against them in a 2022 pre-season friendly.

His physical presence and penalty-box instincts align with Howe’s preferred striker profile, offering a different but equally effective dimension to Newcastle’s attack.

PSG’s willingness to negotiate a permanent transfer rather than a loan suits Newcastle’s long-term planning.

The French champions’ need to balance their squad following Kylian Mbappé’s departure creates an unexpected opportunity for the Magpies to secure a proven goalscorer at a reasonable price.

The potential domino effect could finally unlock the Isak-to-Liverpool transfer, with Newcastle now better positioned to sanction the Swede’s exit knowing a quality replacement is attainable.

As the transfer window enters its decisive phase, all parties recognize the urgency – Ramos represents not just a solution to Newcastle’s immediate needs, but the key to resolving one of the summer’s most protracted sagas.

For Howe and his recruitment team, the coming days will test their ability to navigate complex negotiations while maintaining squad harmony.

Securing Ramos would demonstrate Newcastle’s growing pull in the transfer market and their determination not to be held hostage by player power.

As one club insider noted: “We’ll only do business on our terms – that’s how top clubs operate.” The message is clear: Newcastle intend to emerge stronger from this crisis, regardless of Isak’s ultimate destination.