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Despite previous assertions that their striker was not for sale, Newcastle United could potentially let Alexander Isak move to Liverpool if they receive a $175 million bid on deadline day.
The Swedish player has expressed his desire to leave St James' Park, but the Magpies have insisted they won't let him go unless their valuation is met, having already rejected an initial offer of around $150 million from the Reds, according to the Telegraph.
In a late change of stance, Newcastle's Saudi owners are now open to altering their position if a British-record fee is proposed. This would mark the second time in one summer that the Reds have shattered the record fee, following their $156 million signing of Florian Wirtz.
Throughout the summer, the Magpies had maintained that they wouldn't be willing to let Isak go for less than $200 million. However, their recent change of heart indicates a readiness to bring this saga to a close.
Despite finalizing the $93 million club record signing of Nick Woltemade from Stuttgart, Newcastle still aim to bolster their attacking options. This acquisition was significant as they had been unsuccessful in securing several of their offensive targets over the summer.
Those overseeing the transfer business acknowledge that Brentford are unlikely to sell Yoane Wissa and Wolves are extremely reluctant to part with Jorgen Strand Larsen. They continue to explore the market, but recognize that finalizing any deals at this late stage will be challenging.
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Reports on Swedish TV over the weekend claimed Isak had said his goodbyes to players at the Newcastle training ground, which manager Eddie Howe denied in a charged press conference.
He conveyed to Chronicle Live: "On Alex's situation I have no communication and no update, we are still actively looking to recruit but I don't know if that has any relation to Alex's situation."
When probed about receiving a farewell from Isak, Howe responded: "No, I have had no communication". Howe was further questioned about the alleged meeting and reiterated: "I have no knowledge of that, I can't tell you it didn't happen, but I certainly can't tell you it did.
"That is the first I have heard of it. I am pretty sure I would have known."
Sky Sports also quizzed Howe on the matter, to which he replied: "I'm not party to any talks going on. I have been preparing for this game which is demanding enough. I will find out like everyone else.
"We can't wait for the finish line because we need clarity to move forward."
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