16 hours ago
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A fresh opportunity has surfaced for Alexander Isak to secure his high-profile move away from Newcastle United. It comes after he took drastic action to force a transfer.
Liverpool's pursuit remains at a standstill with their Premier League rivals refusing to budge on their £150 million ($203.5 million) valuation.
Isak's wish to depart has been hindered by his club's inability to secure top transfer targets and potential replacements. Hugo Ekitike, Benjamin Sesko, and Joao Pedro have all eluded them, leaving Isak in a state of uncertainty just three days before their Premier League opener against Aston Villa.
Ironically, it's Saturday's opponents that may have inadvertently assisted the Swedish striker in securing his move.
Villa is currently eyeing up re-signing Marco Ascencio from PSG. The Spanish forward featured 21 times on loan for Unai Emery's team last season, netting eight goals.
To finance that move, club executives are negotiating the sale of Jacob Ramsey to Newcastle in a deal that could be finalized this week.
Given he's a product of the Villa Park youth system, the sale of Ramsey would also improve the club's Financial Fair Play standing. While the 24-year-old isn't a striker, he will bolster Newcastle's attacking options.
This addition could potentially pave the way for Isak's departure because Newcastle would have sufficient attacking strength to compensate for the Swede's exit. The 25-year-old has made it clear he doesn't want to play for the North-East club again and is now likely to be able to push harder for his move.
Liverpool has until 7 pm on Sept. 1 to finalize a deal. They are set for what could be an intense encounter at St James' Park on Monday, Aug. 25.
There's still a chance that Isak might don the red jersey against his present club. So far, the Reds have suggested they're not ready to up their initial bid of £110m plus add-ons, but have subsequently generated additional funds through the sales of Darwin Nunez and Tyler Morton.
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