Liverpool transfer news as Alexander Isak bid prepared and Rodrygo decision made

Liverpool's transfer business looks as though it could be about to hit new levels this summer after a day dominated by speculation over potential deals.

After a bid from Bayern Munich for Luis Diaz was rejected - expect to hear plenty more about that during the remainder of the window - Liverpool stepped up its pursuit of Alexander Isak, with the Reds making an approach to Newcastle over a potential deal. Although the response wasn't what Liverpool fans would have hoped for, that one looks far from over, especially with the Magpies' pursuit of Hugo Ekitike providing an intriguing subplot.

And there was yet more to come, with reports of interest from Saudi Arabia in both Darwin Nunez and Ibrahima Konate. With the start of the new season drawing ever closer, we can definitely expect to see the speculation ramping up over the coming weeks.

Here is the Liverpool.com verdict on the transfer gossip to emerge around the Reds today.

Alexander Isak (Newcastle)

Newcastle is bracing itself for an official offer from Liverpool for Alexander Isak, according to The Times. It’s claimed that the bid could be in the region of $174M (£130M), which is more than was suggested in the initial approach on Tuesday.

Isak is currently training with Newcastle at the club’s Austrian pre-season camp, although it is claimed that the striker’s agent met Eddie Howe at the club’s training ground earlier this month, with the Magpies eager to discuss a new contract and make him the best paid player in the club’s history.

Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg has also indicated that Liverpool is preparing an offer, while Eintrach Frankfurt waits for a new offer from Newcastle for Hugo Ekitike.

Liverpool.com says: Well that escalated quickly. It does seem as though Liverpool's approach for Isak has been sprung in response to Newcastle's pursuit of Ekitike, and now the Reds want to see just how strong Newcastle's resolve is.

Liverpool is in a strong position financially, which makes a deal for Isak possible, and should Newcastle continue to say no, don't be surprised to see the Reds hijack the Magpies' move for Ekitike. Things look like they're about to get very exciting.

Rodrygo (Real Madrid)

Liverpool has shown an interest in Rodrygo in recent days, according to AS reporter Eduardo Burgos. The Brazilian looks as though he could leave Real Madrid this summer, with Xabi Alonso said to be open to an exit for him.

Arsenal is once again linked with his services, while Liverpool is said to have stepped things up as well, with agent Pini Zahavi mediating for the Reds.

Bayern Munich is also claimed to be monitoring his situation amid its pursuit of Luis Diaz, with the German giant said to be willing to reach €100M ($116M).

Liverpool.com says: It will be interesting to see what happens with Rodrygo this summer, although if Liverpool is going after Isak, it's hard to imagine it also splashing the cash to land the Brazilian.

If it is to make a play for him, you'd imagine it might be dependent on Diaz moving on, which the Reds don't look keen on at the moment.

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