Journalist: Liverpool not giving up on £130m striker despite contract talks | OneFootball

Liverpool Maintain Hope Over Isak Deal Despite Price and Contract Talks

Interest in key forward remains despite challenges

Liverpool’s aggressive early-summer strategy under Arne Slot has signalled a clear intention: evolve and compete. With three signings already finalised before pre-season has even begun, the club has set a tone that’s both ambitious and deliberate.

But even with fresh midfield talent and depth in place, there’s a notable void at centre-forward. That’s why Liverpool’s interest in Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak remains undimmed. According to Rousing The Kop, the Swedish striker continues to top the club’s wishlist. Journalist Graeme Bailey told RTK, “Isak has always been in play. I’m confident with my sources on him and what we’re hearing.”

Photo: IMAGO

That level of confidence hasn’t dissipated, even as Newcastle make efforts to tie Isak down to a new long-term contract, one that would reportedly see the Magpies break their own wage structure. But from Liverpool’s side, there’s still hope that a deal can be struck. Bailey adds: “Liverpool are not being deterred, we’re not sure quite why that is, but they seem to think there’s a chink of light there.”

Contract talks continue to delay progress

For now, Newcastle remain tight-lipped about negotiations. From a business perspective, it’s a clever tactic. Any resolution, whether that be a renewal or a parting of ways, would shape the rest of their transfer window. And it could have serious knock-on effects for Liverpool’s pursuit.

Bailey explained, “Newcastle are willing to break their wage structure on a new deal for him, but Liverpool are keeping a close eye on the talks and it’s going to come to a head very soon.”

Isak’s future is still unresolved. As long as his signature remains off that new contract, Liverpool will continue to watch, wait and plan.

Price tag begins to take shape

One major sticking point has always been the price. Initial whispers of a £200 million valuation felt less like negotiation and more like a “not for sale” sticker. But that position may be softening.

Bailey says that although it would take another British record to sign the 25-year-old, Liverpool could potentially land Isak for £120-130 million, providing he does not extend his stay on Tyneside.

Photo: IMAGO

“Obviously the British record has been broken by Liverpool now, and the offer would have to be similar to get Isak out of Newcastle, but it is distinctly possible,” Bailey confirmed.

That figure, while still eye-watering, would represent a firm declaration of Liverpool’s belief in Isak’s quality and potential fit in their evolving system under Slot.

Recruitment drive far from over

Even as talks swirl around Isak, Liverpool are understood to be working on additional targets. Centre-back remains a priority, with England international Marc Guehi heavily linked.

Photo: IMAGO

But up front, it’s clear that Liverpool are looking for a statement player. Someone capable of spearheading a new attacking structure. Isak fits that mould—technically gifted, positionally intelligent, and physically equipped for the Premier League grind.

Liverpool’s transfer activity has already outpaced many of their rivals, but this pursuit, if successful, would transform the narrative again.

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Liverpool fans should be cautiously optimistic about this pursuit of Isak. While the price is steep and the deal complicated, the fact that the club is still pushing—despite Newcastle’s firm public stance—speaks volumes. There’s clearly a sense at Anfield that Isak is worth the effort and the financial stretch.

And it’s not hard to see why. The Swede is a natural fit for the Premier League and would offer something different to Liverpool’s current front line. He’s composed in front of goal, links up play superbly and is equally comfortable driving at defenders or dropping into pockets of space.

What excites supporters most is the idea that Isak could be the centrepiece in Slot’s attack, combining with the likes of Wirtz and Díaz in what could be a new-look fluid frontline. He would not just score goals, but unlock others around him.

If the figures discussed are accurate, and Liverpool can indeed do a deal under £130 million, then this is a gamble worth taking. It would be a statement—financially, tactically and emotionally. The sort of move that tells the rest of Europe that Liverpool are building for now, not later.

In truth, it still feels like there’s a lot of road left in this saga. But Liverpool haven’t walked away yet. And that, in itself, tells you something.