JUST IN: Alexander Isak handed £40million transfer lifeline after Newcastle offer star ultimatum
A potential breakthrough has reportedly emerged in Alexander Isak’s ongoing bid to secure a high-profile move away from Newcastle United.
Liverpool’s interest in the Swedish forward remains strong, but their pursuit has been stuck in limbo for weeks, with the Magpies refusing to budge from their steep £150 million valuation. For Isak, who has made no secret of his desire to depart St James’ Park this summer, the impasse has been deeply frustrating — particularly as Newcastle’s inability to land their preferred transfer targets has repeatedly blocked his exit.
The club’s recruitment drive has so far fallen short, with the likes of Hugo Ekitike, Benjamin Šeško, and João Pedro all slipping through their fingers. This lack of incoming reinforcements has left Eddie Howe reluctant to sanction Isak’s departure, especially with just three days remaining before Newcastle kick off their new Premier League campaign.
Ironically, it may be Newcastle’s opening-day opponents, Aston Villa, who end up playing a decisive role in unlocking the situation. Reports suggest Villa are pushing to re-sign Marco Asensio from Paris Saint-Germain — a player who enjoyed a successful loan spell under Unai Emery last season, scoring eight goals in 21 appearances.
To finance the move, Villa are in advanced talks to sell academy graduate Jacob Ramsey to Newcastle in a deal worth around £40 million, according to the Express. The transfer could be completed before the weekend, with the fee also offering Villa a significant boost to their Financial Fair Play compliance.
Although Ramsey is not a striker, the 24-year-old’s arrival would strengthen Newcastle’s attacking depth, potentially making it easier for Howe to finally greenlight Isak’s departure. The Swede has reportedly told the club he has no intention of playing for them again, having been given an ultimatum by Howe earlier in the summer.
Liverpool now have until the 7pm deadline on 1 September to get a deal over the line. A move would add even more drama to the fixture list — if negotiations progress quickly enough, Isak could theoretically make his Liverpool debut against Newcastle at St James’ Park on Monday, 25 August.
The Reds’ opening bid of £110 million plus add-ons was swiftly rejected, but their spending power has been boosted in recent days by the high-profile departures of Darwin Núñez and Tyler Morton. Whether that additional cash will be enough to meet Newcastle’s asking price — and finally bring an end to one of the summer’s most drawn-out transfer sagas — remains to be seen.