Liverpool plotting double swoop for Alexander Isak and Marc Guehi despite Newcastle resistance
Liverpool are reportedly preparing a sensational £165 million double raid as they line up a move for Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak and Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, a player long admired by the Magpies themselves.
Isak drops bombshell amid breakdown with Newcastle
The transfer saga surrounding Isak took a dramatic twist on Tuesday evening when the Swedish international released a strongly worded statement, claiming his relationship with Newcastle United had “irretrievably broken down.” The forward suggested that, for the good of both parties, a departure this summer would be the best outcome.
Newcastle wasted no time in responding. Within hours, the club issued a firm rebuttal, making it crystal clear that Isak was not for sale under any circumstances. The statement was seen by many as a direct challenge to the striker’s plea and a signal of intent from the ownership that they would not be bullied into a sale – especially with the new season now underway.
Liverpool circle despite Newcastle’s defiance
Despite Newcastle’s firm stance, Liverpool appear undeterred. According to The Sun, the Merseyside giants are readying a fresh £130 million bid for Isak, one that would smash their club transfer record.
On top of that, Jürgen Klopp’s side are preparing to move for Marc Guehi, the Crystal Palace centre-back who has been on Newcastle’s radar for over a year. Liverpool are reportedly planning a £35 million offer for the England international, making it a combined £165 million outlay that would push their summer spending to a staggering £466 million.
Newcastle’s transfer priorities have shifted
Newcastle, meanwhile, have already moved to strengthen their defensive ranks with the signing of Malick Thiaw, meaning Guehi is no longer a pressing target for Eddie Howe’s side. Their primary concern now is holding onto Isak, whose goals and all-round play have been central to the Magpies’ rise in the Premier League and return to European competition.
While there have been whispers in recent weeks that a £130 million package might have tempted Newcastle into negotiations, the club’s late-night statement has drastically shifted the landscape. It now seems highly unlikely that any bid – even one of that size – will be entertained before the window closes.
A storm brewing at St James’ Park
All eyes will now turn to Monday night, when Newcastle and Liverpool face off at St James’ Park in a blockbuster Premier League clash. The timing of Liverpool’s renewed interest adds an extra layer of spice to what is already a high-profile encounter.
Isak’s involvement remains in doubt. The forward is currently absent from training and is not expected to feature, but his name will dominate the build-up regardless. Even if he is not in the stadium, chants, banners, and media chatter will ensure he remains the centre of attention throughout the evening.
Pundits are already predicting one of the most hostile atmospheres in recent memory, with home supporters expected to vent their anger at both Liverpool’s pursuit and the growing uncertainty surrounding their star striker.
The bigger picture
For Liverpool, landing both Isak and Guehi would represent a massive statement of intent as they look to rebuild a side capable of challenging Manchester City at the top of English football. For Newcastle, however, the situation is more about pride and principle. The club’s Saudi-backed owners are determined not to be seen as a “selling club,” particularly when it comes to one of their crown jewels.
The next few days could be decisive. Should Liverpool press ahead with their £165 million double swoop, we may be about to witness one of the transfer window’s defining sagas – one that could reshape the immediate future of both clubs.