Liverpool: Ornstein reveals Isak update as Newcastle not ready to receive any bid, ‘chapter closed’

The future of Alexander Isak at Newcastle United appears increasingly uncertain as multiple reports indicate the Swedish striker has mentally moved on from Tyneside, with Liverpool emerging as his preferred destination.

The Athletic’s David Ornstein has delivered a bombshell update suggesting Isak and his representatives now view his “Newcastle chapter as closed,” creating a standoff that could force the Magpies’ hand in the transfer market.

Liverpool’s initial £120 million bid may have been rejected, but the reigning Premier League champions show no signs of abandoning their pursuit despite already spending £260 million this summer – including £80 million on Hugo Ekitike.

The Reds’ transfer strategy suggests they view Isak as the final piece of their attacking puzzle, with the 24-year-old’s 27-goal campaign last season establishing him among Europe’s elite forwards.

Behind the scenes, tensions have escalated to the point where manager Eddie Howe has reportedly instructed Isak to train alone – a clear indication of the breakdown in relations.

This development weakens Newcastle’s negotiating position despite the striker being under contract until 2028. The club now faces an unenviable choice: retain an unsettled star or cash in at peak value to fund a squad rebuild.

Newcastle’s contingency planning had centered on Benjamin Šeško before his anticipated move to Manchester United, leaving the Magpies scrambling for alternatives.

Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson remains on their radar, though he represents a significant downgrade in quality.

Other names will undoubtedly surface as sporting director Dan Ashworth works to identify suitable replacements, but finding anyone capable of replicating Isak’s 0.95 goal contributions per 90 minutes last season presents a monumental challenge.

Ornstein’s assessment that there’s “a very good chance” Isak departs before September 1st carries particular weight given his reputation for transfer accuracy.

The situation mirrors several high-profile sagas where player power ultimately forced moves despite clubs’ initial resistance.

With Isak’s camp making their intentions clear and Liverpool waiting in the wings, Newcastle may have to reluctantly accept the inevitable.

The coming weeks will test Newcastle’s resolve and recruitment strategy like never before. Losing their talismanic striker would represent a crushing blow to their ambitions, but reinvesting £120+ million wisely could allow Eddie Howe to address multiple squad weaknesses.

One thing appears certain – the Alexander Isak era at St James’ Park seems destined to end not with a bang, but with the quiet inevitability of modern football’s transfer realities.