1 week ago
41
Liverpool still wants to sign Alexander Isak from Newcastle United, but it has long been assumed that the Magpies would need to sign a replacement before their star man will reluctantly be allowed to leave.
Brentford striker Yoane Wissa is one option who has been considered, but like Newcastle and Isak, the West London side is not making it easy for him to make the switch. RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko, the 22-year-old forward also being chased by Manchester United, is now the leading contender, though Eddie Howe could look to bring in more than one new player.
According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle has now made an improved offer for Sesko, which is worth $104 million (£78 million) including add-ons. The Slovenian is said to have made clear that he would be willing to make the move to the North East.
Manchester United, though it holds an interest in Sesko and has been lurking in the background, is yet to make a formal bid. There is also a question mark over whether it can afford to go so big for the Slovenian without selling some other stars first.
Having made one offer already for Isak, Liverpool now must wait to see what unfolds at St James' Park. Should Sesko get over the line — with some suggestion that a decision could be made on him in the next 24 hours or so — then that would be a major boost.
If Newcastle could bring in another attacker on top of that, it would certainly point to a change in stance when it comes to letting Isak go. At that point, Liverpool could make a second bid.
Liverpool's first offer for Isak was worth around $146 million (£110 million). There is some suggestion that Newcastle will demand as much as $199 million (£150 million) for its number 14, but a compromise could be struck.
"Isak's obviously an incredibly talented boy, and I would say that there aren't that many top-class center-forwards around in the world at the moment," former Liverpool and Newcastle striker Michael Owen told Liverpool.com this week.
"So, if there's a team in need, and they’re a top team, then your eyes would certainly be drawn to him. He's had a great season.
"Newcastle are in the Champions League this year. There's a lot to look forward to at Newcastle. They're a wealthy team; whether they can spend that money is a different question, but I don't blame Liverpool for being interested in him.
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
"I don't blame any top team for being interested in him, because he's one of the world's best in his position. So from any club's point of view, I don't blame them at all."
The transfer window is set to close on September 1. Liverpool plays Newcastle away from home in the second game of the new Premier League season, on Monday, August 25.
Liverpool.com says: If Sesko does pick Newcastle and that deal gets done then it will look a lot more likely that Liverpool can get the Isak deal over the line. Given the Magpies have now tabled two huge offers for Sesko, that does appear to have a decent chance of happening.
English (US) ·