Liverpool are reportedly set to hijack Arsenal's pursuit of Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak, after the Gunners balked at the Swedish international's price tag. According to reports, Arsenal quickly 'turned down' the idea of signing Isak, with the club's general response being 'no chance'. The development comes amid ongoing uncertainty over Isak's future at St James' Park.
Isak did not attend the PFA Awards in Manchester on Tuesday night, fuelling speculation about his future. The Newcastle record signing has been told to train on his own after the Magpies returned from a pre-season tour in the Far East. During the ceremony, Isak posted a bombshell statement on social media alleging 'broken promises', prompting Newcastle to hit back with a statement of their own.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe expressed disappointment over the public nature of the dispute. 'My emotion was one of disappointment in the respect of these things being made public,' Howe said. 'For me, all of these things, ideally, should be face to face, club on player. It doesn't reflect well on us or Alex. The situation is regrettable.'
The summer transfer window closes on September 1, and Liverpool face a race against time to secure Isak's signature. Newcastle, meanwhile, are pushing for reinforcements after a damaging summer for their shopping list, missing out on a host of players. The club has to act in the best interests of Newcastle, Howe added, describing it as a 'lose-lose situation' for the Magpies.
