Liverpool get final Isak verdict as Ornstein shares outcome of record-shattering Newcastle raid

Liverpool’s pursuit of Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak has seemingly hit a definitive dead end, with new reports suggesting the Magpies have no interest in negotiating his departure.

David Ornstein’s recent update makes it clear that any lingering hope Liverpool held of prying the prolific Swedish striker from St James’ Park has been extinguished. Despite Isak being labeled a “dream signing” for incoming manager Arne Slot, Newcastle’s firm stance and sky-high valuation have all but closed the door.

Liverpool have already spent over £190 million on five signings this summer, setting a club record in the process. Yet with a new centre-forward and central defender still on Slot’s radar, the Reds are far from done.

Slot aims to begin the new Premier League campaign with a squad fully equipped to defend the title they won by a commanding 10-point margin.

A number of departures are expected to fund these next moves, with Darwin Nunez strongly tipped to exit—most likely to Napoli—as talks continue between clubs.

Newcastle, however, are standing firm on Isak. The club views him as a cornerstone of their project and have made no indication they’re willing to entertain offers—regardless of size.

According to Ornstein, the Magpies would only consider selling if they received an astronomical bid, with figures approaching £150 million being floated. Even then, Newcastle remain highly reluctant, aiming instead to tie Isak down to an extended contract.

Ornstein stated that Newcastle have no intention of opening the door, and even if tempted, the cost would be prohibitive for most clubs. Arsenal and Liverpool may admire him, but admiration alone won’t break down Newcastle’s resolve. For now, Isak is set to stay on Tyneside.

With the Swedish striker off the table, Liverpool have shifted focus to alternatives, and Hugo Ekitike has surged to the top of their list.

Unlike Newcastle, Eintracht Frankfurt are reportedly open to selling Ekitike, as long as their €100 million asking price is met. Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Liverpool are actively working on the deal and are keeping close tabs on developments.

He noted that discussions are already underway as the club waits to finalize Darwin Nunez’s departure. Ekitike is viewed as a key target to bolster the forward line, and while a deal is not imminent, progress is being made behind the scenes.

Romano has reiterated Liverpool’s strong interest in Ekitike multiple times, indicating that while patience is required, he remains a real possibility.

In his most recent update, Romano emphasized that Ekitike is expected to move to the Premier League, with Liverpool remaining among the favorites to secure his signature.

The situation hinges largely on Nunez’s exit; once that deal is completed, Liverpool are expected to move decisively.

Elsewhere on the transfer front, the Reds are exploring a significant move for two Barcelona players in what could be a blockbuster double swoop. The club is reportedly preparing a sizeable offer as they look to reinforce key areas of the squad.

Meanwhile, speculation around Ibrahima Konaté continues to swirl, with Atletico Madrid expressing strong interest. However, Liverpool remain focused on keeping their core defensive unit intact while simultaneously exploring contingency plans.

In midfield, the club has opted not to pursue Martin Zubimendi, despite previous interest. The Spanish international has since joined Arsenal for a fee higher than initially projected.

A pundit explained that Liverpool’s reluctance stemmed from a mismatch in long-term strategy, rather than a lack of talent. Slot and his staff are prioritizing players who align with their tactical direction and budgetary framework.

In summary, while Liverpool’s ambition in the market remains aggressive, the pursuit of Alexander Isak is over before it truly began.

The club’s attention has now turned fully to Hugo Ekitike, who appears to be a more realistic—albeit still expensive—option to lead the line next season.

Should Nunez depart as expected, Liverpool will have both the need and the resources to act decisively. The coming weeks will be pivotal as Arne Slot continues reshaping the squad for another Premier League title challenge.