Liverpool's new era under Arne Slot could begin with a spectacular double transfer raid on Newcastle United, with the Reds reportedly preparing a massive player-plus-cash offer for star striker Alexander Isak.
According to exclusive reports, the Merseyside club are willing to include homegrown midfielder Curtis Jones as a makeweight in a deal that would also see them pursue Magpies forward Hugo Ekitike in a separate transaction.
Record-Breaking Deal in the Making
The proposed deal for Isak would likely shatter Liverpool's transfer record, potentially exceeding the £85 million paid for Virgil van Dijk. Newcastle's financial constraints, due to Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), have put them in a position where they might need to consider selling their prized asset.
Swedish international Isak enjoyed a phenomenal 2023/24 season, netting 21 Premier League goals and establishing himself as one of the division's most feared forwards. His potential arrival would address Liverpool's need for a proven, world-class number nine.
Jones as the Potential Bargaining Chip
In a strategic move to lower the astronomical cash outlay, Liverpool are prepared to offer academy product Curtis Jones in part-exchange. The 23-year-old midfielder, who has made over 100 appearances for the club, is highly rated by the Newcastle hierarchy, making him an attractive proposition for the Magpies.
This approach mirrors successful negotiations of the past, where player exchanges have helped facilitate major transfers between top-flight clubs.
Ekitike: The Secondary Target
Separately, Liverpool are also showing concrete interest in French youngster Hugo Ekitike. The 21-year-old forward, who spent last season on loan at Eintracht Frankfurt from Paris Saint-Germain, is seen as a promising talent for the future.
Newcastle holds a purchase option on Ekitike, believed to be in the region of £15 million, which they are expected to trigger. This would allow them to immediately sell him on for a profit, with Liverpool waiting in the wings.
What This Means for Liverpool's Attack
Securing both Isak and Ekitike would represent a monumental overhaul of Liverpool's forward line. It would provide Arne Slot with the elite-level striker he desires in Isak, while also adding a young, developmental prospect in Ekitike to bolster the squad's depth.
For Newcastle fans, this news will be met with concern. Losing a player of Isak's calibre would be a significant blow, despite the potential financial relief and acquisition of a talented English midfielder like Jones.
All eyes will now be on the negotiating tables at Anfield and St. James' Park as what could be the summer's biggest transfer saga begins to unfold.
