UNBELIEVABLE! Ben Jacobs shares shock update in Liverpool move for Isak after bid rejected
Liverpool’s Alexander Isak Pursuit Hits a Wall Despite Record-Breaking Bid
Liverpool’s bold attempt to sign Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak has dramatically stalled, despite optimism earlier in the week that a move was within reach. The Reds launched a mammoth bid on Friday morning, offering a package worth £120 million plus significant add-ons in an attempt to lure the prolific Swede to Anfield before the transfer window closes.
Isak, who has reportedly expressed a clear desire to leave St. James’ Park over the past fortnight, was believed to be keen on the move. New Liverpool head coach Arne Slot had seemingly capitalized on the forward’s uncertainty, making him a top attacking target despite already securing the services of French striker Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt.
Slot envisions Isak not just as a luxury addition but as a crucial piece in his tactical overhaul. With Ekitike offering pace and movement, Isak’s technical ability, finishing, and physical presence would complement Liverpool’s evolving frontline perfectly. As defending Premier League champions, Liverpool are aiming to build a squad capable of dominating both domestically and in Europe — and Isak’s inclusion seemed like a natural step in that evolution.
Newcastle’s Stance Derails Negotiations
However, in a significant setback for Liverpool, respected journalist Ben Jacobs revealed on X (formerly Twitter) that the Merseyside club has no current plans to return with an improved offer. Newcastle rejected the initial bid outright, showing no interest in negotiating further — a response that has led Liverpool to deem any continued pursuit as “futile” unless the Magpies initiate further dialogue.
Liverpool’s £120m offer — which would have broken the Premier League transfer record they themselves set earlier in the summer when they acquired Florian Wirtz for £116 million — was meant to demonstrate serious ambition. But with Newcastle showing no signs of softening their stance, the Reds appear unwilling to become embroiled in a drawn-out saga.
The rejection also comes amid Newcastle’s own concerns about losing their talisman ahead of another crucial campaign, especially with UEFA competition commitments and internal pressure to retain their biggest stars after last season’s top-four finish.
Isak’s Appeal and Liverpool’s Forward Vision
Isak had a standout 2024/25 campaign, notching 23 Premier League goals — a tally second only to Liverpool’s own Mohamed Salah. His clinical edge in front of goal, paired with an ever-improving all-round game, makes him one of Europe’s most coveted strikers. Slot sees him as a player who could lead the line for years, potentially forming a devastating attacking quartet alongside Salah, Wirtz, and Dominik Szoboszlai — with Alexis Mac Allister pulling the strings behind.
The move made footballing sense for all parties: Liverpool would have gained a proven Premier League striker entering his prime, while Isak would get the opportunity to compete for major trophies, both domestically and on the continental stage.
Future Still Open — But Clock Is Ticking
Despite this setback, the door isn’t entirely closed. Should Newcastle change their stance later in the window, perhaps due to pressure from the player or new developments on the financial front, Liverpool may revisit the situation. For now, though, the deal appears dead in the water.
With less than a month left in the transfer window, the Reds must quickly decide whether to turn their attention to alternative targets or remain on standby in case Newcastle signals a willingness to negotiate.
In the meantime, Isak’s future remains in limbo. Though he continues to train with the squad, speculation surrounding his long-term commitment to Newcastle is unlikely to fade anytime soon. And for Liverpool, it’s a reminder that even record-breaking bids don’t always guarantee success in a fiercely competitive market.