Newcastle shove Tottenham aside for second striker signing that unlocks Isak to Liverpool

The final days of the summer transfer window are always a whirlwind of activity, and for Newcastle United, the pieces of a complex puzzle are finally falling into place.

The club is on the verge of completing a club-record signing, with German striker Nick Woltemade set to arrive from Stuttgart in a deal worth up to £69 million.

This move represents more than just a new addition to the squad—it’s the key that could unlock a series of other transfers, including the long-awaited departure of Alexander Isak to Liverpool.

Woltemade’s arrival has been in the works for some time, and his profile as a strong, technical, and mobile forward makes him the ideal replacement for Isak.

The Swedish international has made it clear that he wants to leave St. James’ Park, and Liverpool have identified him as their primary target.

However, Newcastle have been firm in their stance: they will not sanction Isak’s sale until they have not one, but two new strikers secured. Woltemade is the first; the search for the second is now intensifying.

That second target is Brentford’s Yoane Wissa. The 28-year-old forward has been on Newcastle’s radar for much of the summer, and the feeling is mutual Wissa is keen on the move and has even taken the step of making himself unavailable for Brentford’s match against Sunderland as he awaits developments.

His preference for Newcastle is clear, despite interest from other clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur. Spurs, managed by Wissa’s former boss Thomas Frank, have maintained interest throughout the window, but the player’s desire to join Newcastle gives the Magpies a significant advantage.

The main obstacle remains the fee. Brentford have proven to be tough negotiators, and their asking price has fluctuated throughout the summer.

Initially, they demanded around £50 million, with some reports even suggesting they might hold out for £60 million.

Newcastle’s last offer was a package worth £40 million, including add-ons, which was quickly rejected. However, the situation is now evolving.

According to reliable sources, Brentford are finally prepared to sanction a sale, but only if they can secure a replacement first.

This is where the transfer chain becomes especially intricate. Brentford are actively pursuing their own targets, with Borussia Dortmund’s Max Beier emerging as a leading candidate.

Talks are ongoing, but personal terms have not yet been agreed, meaning everything is still in flux. Newcastle have a new bid prepared for Wissa and are ready to move quickly, but they understand that Brentford will not engage seriously until they have their own replacement lined up.

Meanwhile, Liverpool are waiting in the wings, prepared to make a improved offer for Alexander Isak. Their initial bid of £110 million plus add-ons was rejected, but they are expected to return with a proposal worth around £130 million—a figure that would test Newcastle’s resolve.

If all goes to plan, the dominoes will fall in quick succession: Woltemade signs, Wissa arrives, and Isak finally gets his move to Anfield.

For Newcastle, this represents a carefully orchestrated strategy. By securing two strikers before allowing Isak to leave, they ensure that the squad is not left short-handed ahead of a demanding season. For the fans, it’s a thrilling—if nerve-wracking—prospect. The next few days will be decisive, and the outcome could define the club’s campaign.