Liverpool ‘encouraged' over Alexander Isak pursuit
Liverpool have been given encouragement in their pursuit of Alexander Isak with contract talks between the forward and Newcastle having failed to progress.
Newcastle are aware of interest in Isak from the Premier League champions and are keen to tie the Swedish striker down to a new deal. Isak has scored 62 goals in 109 games for the Magpies and is regarded as one of Europe's best number nines.
Liverpool view Isak as the ideal addition to their frontline and are aware that Newcastle have no intention of selling, after securing Champions League qualification.
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However, Flashscore are reporting that a lack of progress on contract talks has offered Liverpool encouragement. Isak currently earns around £120,000-a-week at St James' Park and would reportedly command a deal closer to £200,000-a-week to remain at Newcastle long term.
That salary would make Isak comfortably the club's highest earner and Liverpool are 'alert' to the situation should an agreement not be reached.
Liverpool are aware it would take a British record offer of £120m, as a minimum, to begin talks for the forward. The Reds are set to finalise a club-record deal for Florian Wirtz on Friday, worth an initial £100m, and have agreed a £40m fee for Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez.
It continues a remarkable summer for Liverpool, who are looking to build from a position of strength. A number nine who can score goals and 'connect the team' is on the radar, with Isak top of the wish list. Eintracht Frankfurt's Hugo Ekitike has been monitored as an alternative.
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Liverpool are expected to recoup further funds from a series of sales. Jarell Quansah is nearing a £34m move to Bayer Leverkusen, while there is interest in Darwin Nunez, Harvey Elliott and Andy Robertson.
Read – Liverpool agree £40m deal for Milos Kerkez
See more – Liverpool prepare 'significant offer' for Marc Guehi
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