Liverpool have had a £110 million bid for Alexander Isak rejected by Newcastle United and will not make a second offer for the striker in this transfer window, according to sources. The Merseyside club's first formal offer fell short of the £120 million suggested when sporting director Richard Hughes made an informal enquiry two weeks ago.
Newcastle value Isak at £150 million, a British transfer record, and are reluctant to sell the 25-year-old, who was the Premier League's second-highest scorer last season behind Mohamed Salah. Given the swift rejection, Liverpool consider it futile to return with another bid before the window closes on 1 September, though their £110 million offer remains on the table.
Liverpool were encouraged by Isak's desire to move to Anfield, expressed through his representatives. The club have spent nearly £300 million this summer, including a £79 million deal for Hugo Ekitiké, but have recouped £190 million in sales since Hughes arrived in June 2024. Their current transfer record is the £100 million paid for Florian Wirtz, which could rise to £116 million with add-ons.
Isak did not travel on Newcastle's pre-season tour of Asia, with the club citing a minor thigh injury, but the player has informed them he wishes to explore his options, with Liverpool his preferred destination. He has been training at former club Real Sociedad this week, though it is unclear if he had Newcastle's permission. The forward, signed for £60 million in 2022, has three years remaining on his contract.
Newcastle maintain Isak is not for sale but have been attempting to sign other top strikers without success. Eddie Howe and his nephew Andy Howe are overseeing recruitment after Paul Mitchell stepped down as sporting director. Targets including Benjamin Sesko face competition from Manchester United, while Brentford have rejected an opening offer for Yoane Wissa.
