“Almost”- Sky Sports drop major news for Spurs target deal which will affect Isak and Newcastle
Alexander Isak’s Future Uncertain Amid Growing Transfer Speculation, as Newcastle United Intensify Pursuit of Yoane Wissa
The buzz on Tyneside this week has been dominated by swirling rumours surrounding the future of star striker Alexander Isak. A wave of speculation erupted on Thursday after the Swedish international was conspicuously absent from the Newcastle United squad that departed for their pre-season tour of Asia, where they are scheduled to face Arsenal, a K-League XI, and Tottenham Hotspur.
The speculation intensified further when reports emerged suggesting that Isak’s representatives had formally notified the Newcastle hierarchy of the player’s desire to explore potential opportunities elsewhere during the ongoing transfer window. This development has cast significant doubt over the striker’s long-term future at St. James’ Park.
Liverpool have been at the forefront of interest in the 24-year-old forward, having reportedly made a discreet approach for his signature earlier this month. Jurgen Klopp’s side remains keen on bolstering their attacking line, and Isak, with his pace, technical finesse, and clinical finishing, has emerged as a prime target. While no formal bid has been confirmed publicly, insiders suggest Liverpool are monitoring the situation closely, and a move cannot be ruled out.
Despite the growing uncertainty around Isak’s future, Newcastle United are actively working behind the scenes to strengthen their forward options ahead of a demanding 2025/26 campaign. With veteran striker Callum Wilson having departed earlier this summer, manager Eddie Howe finds himself short of proven attacking depth, especially with European football returning to Tyneside next season. The club must navigate the dual pressures of domestic and continental competition, making the acquisition of a reliable forward to support—or potentially replace—Isak a top priority.
Several strikers have been considered by the Magpies’ recruitment team. Talented youngsters like Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, and Hugo Ekitike were all monitored closely, but each has opted to pursue opportunities elsewhere, leaving Newcastle to reassess their targets. Now, attention has turned to Brentford’s versatile and dynamic forward Yoane Wissa, who is coming off an impressive season where he netted 19 goals in 35 Premier League appearances.
Earlier this week, Newcastle tabled an opening offer of £25 million for Wissa, only for Brentford to swiftly reject the bid. The Bees remain reluctant to lose one of their key attacking assets without proper compensation, particularly after already facing uncertainty over Bryan Mbeumo’s future.
However, Newcastle’s pursuit of Wissa may not be over just yet. According to a fresh update from Sky Sports on Thursday afternoon, there has been meaningful progress in discussions between the two clubs. The report suggests that Newcastle are now in active negotiations to improve their initial proposal, potentially submitting a new offer in the region of £35 million.
Respected reporter Keith Downie added further fuel to the fire with an update on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). He wrote: “Further talks are happening today at Brentford over the future of Yoane Wissa. Newcastle have had a £25m bid turned down but are in discussions over a £35m package. The player wants to leave and is currently training on his own in London. I’m told his move to #NUFC is moving towards a conclusion. Newcastle want him to be an option to Alexander Isak for the coming season.”
Wissa’s desire to depart Brentford has become increasingly apparent in recent days. The DR Congo international left the club’s pre-season training camp in Portugal prematurely, flying back to London to engage in discussions with Brentford’s sporting director, Phil Giles. His decision to train separately from the main squad suggests that a transfer could be imminent.
Although other Premier League clubs such as Nottingham Forest and Tottenham Hotspur have expressed interest in securing the 28-year-old’s services, it is Newcastle United who currently lead the race. Sources close to the player indicate that Wissa is open to the move, with the opportunity to play in Europe and potentially become a central figure in Eddie Howe’s system proving too tempting to ignore.
If Newcastle can finalise a deal for Wissa, it would significantly bolster their attacking depth and give them a potent weapon to either partner or alternate with Isak—should the Swede remain at the club. And should Isak depart, Wissa may even find himself stepping into the spotlight as Newcastle’s main man up front.
With the summer transfer window heating up, Newcastle United fans can expect more twists and turns as the club seeks to solidify its squad ahead of a critical season. Whether Isak stays or goes, the potential arrival of Yoane Wissa could prove to be one of the most pivotal signings of the summer for the Magpies.