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Newcastle United is concerned that Liverpool might employ the same patient strategy it used to secure Virgil van Dijk, in its pursuit of Alexander Isak. The reigning Premier League champions have hinted at a willingness to bide their time over the Swedish international, following a rejected $146 million (£110 million) bid from the Toon.
Isak has his heart set on a Merseyside move and has been training at his former club Real Sociedad while his team-mates tour Asia pre-season, due to a minor thigh injury. Despite manager Eddie Howe's reassurances, the 25-year-old risks upsetting St James' Park supporters if he continues to push for a move.
Should relations deteriorate, it could increase pressure on the Tyneside club to grant Isak his wish by striking a deal with the Reds. This wouldn't be unfamiliar territory for Liverpool, who previously navigated a similar situation with Van Dijk.
In the summer of 2017, Liverpool withdrew its interest in the Dutchman after Southampton reported to the Premier League over the Reds' conduct during negotiations. However, five months later, Van Dijk was signed for $100M (£75m).
The saga "created an earthquake" at St Mary's, according to former Saints chairman Ralph Krueger. If Newcastle's Saudi owners feel cornered, it could potentially backfire on both Liverpool and Isak.
However, manager Howe is eager to capitalize on the positivity surrounding the end of Newcastle's 70-year wait for silverware last term and Champions League qualification.
He has been cautious not to rule out his star player's potential return. Speaking ahead of his side's clash with Tottenham in Seoul on Sunday, Howe remarked: "I am very much removed from everything that is happening back home.
"I was made aware there was a bid yesterday. That bid was turned down before I heard about it. There are people back in England dealing with the situation.
"I really don't know what is going to happen next but, from our perspective, we still support Alex in every way and my wish is still that we see him in a Newcastle shirt again.
"I know where he is through the media, so I think from that perspective it's difficult for me to go into any detail. The situation is far from ideal. It is quite complex. I think that is all I have got to say."
The Magpies are optimistic they have moved ahead of Manchester United in the pursuit of RB Leipzig's Slovenian forward Benjamin Sesko following a $93M (£70m) offer, including bonuses.
Should they succeed in that endeavour, it would boost Liverpool's hopes of securing Isak during this transfer window, despite having already invested nearly $300 million in strengthening Arne Slot's championship-winning squad.
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