Liverpool have seen a £110 million bid for Alexander Isak rejected by Newcastle United and will not make another offer for the Sweden international in the current transfer window, according to club sources.
The bid came after sporting director Richard Hughes made an informal enquiry over Isak's availability two weeks ago, when Newcastle indicated a valuation of £120 million. However, Liverpool's formal offer fell short, with Newcastle valuing the 25-year-old at £150 million, which would be a British record transfer fee. Sources at Anfield say the speed of Newcastle's rejection leaves them with no appetite to return with an improved bid before the 1 September deadline.
Isak has not joined Newcastle's pre-season tour of Asia, with the club citing a minor thigh injury. However, the player has informed the club he wishes to explore his options this summer, with Liverpool his preferred destination. He was seen training at former club Real Sociedad this week, though it is unclear if he had Newcastle's permission.
Newcastle remain reluctant to sell the striker, who scored the second-most goals in the Premier League last season behind Mohamed Salah. They have been attempting to sign other top-level forwards this summer, including Hugo Ekitiké, who joined Liverpool for £79 million, but have so far been unsuccessful. Eddie Howe and his nephew Andy Howe are overseeing recruitment after Paul Mitchell stepped down as sporting director.
Liverpool have spent nearly £300 million this summer, offset by £190 million in player sales and strong revenues from winning the title and returning to the Champions League. Their current record signing is Florian Wirtz for £100 million, a deal that could rise to £116 million with add-ons. Isak has three years remaining on his Newcastle contract, signed for around £60 million in 2022.
