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Topics: Alexander Isak, Newcastle United, Liverpool, Transfer News, Football, Premier League
Luke Davies
Topics: Alexander Isak, Newcastle United, Liverpool, Transfer News, Football, Premier League
Liverpool fans were quick to have their say when they noticed that Alexander Isak was not included in Newcastle United’s squad ahead of their pre-season friendly against Celtic in Glasgow on Saturday, but there’s a reason for his absence.
Isak, 25, is arguably one of the most sought-after strikers in world football right now, having registered 27 goals and six assists in 42 appearances for Newcastle last season.
The Swede has since attracted tentative interest from Arsenal, but in recent days Liverpool emerged as the frontrunners to sign him this summer.
Both Newcastle and Liverpool were also keen on Eintracht Frankfurt forward Hugo Ekitike, but despite Eddie Howe’s side putting a bid worth a reported £70m on the table, they have now pulled out of the race, and a potential move to Anfield seems imminent for the Frenchman.
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On Thursday, journalist Fabrizio Romano issued an update on X.
“Liverpool have submitted an official bid to Eintracht for Hugo Ekitike,” he wrote.
"Eintracht already informed Liverpool that they want more, proposal was rejected, but it was an initial contact, and talks continue.
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“Ekitike said 𝐲𝐞𝐬 Liverpool, no issues on personal terms. He wants LFC.”
Meanwhile, a shock update emerged on Friday, with Sky Sports reporter Gianluca Di Marzio reporting that Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal were also now interested in signing Isak.
A report from The Sun suggested that although Isak is disappointed at his current situation with regards to talks halting about a new contract at St James’ Park, he is not thought to be pushing for a move.
However, this did not stop Liverpool fans from reacting when they noticed his omission from Newcastle’s squad for their pre-season clash against Celtic in Scotland on Saturday.
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One said: “They’re saying Isak didn’t even go to the ground? Yet Joelinton, who is also not in the squad, went to the ground?”
Another added: “Joelinton is there while Isak isn’t. Why? Because Isak is meeting with the mighty red men.”
A third commented: “Joelinton got off the coach. Heard Isak didn't.”
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Despite the excitement from Liverpool supporters, there is an explanation.
As reported by The Athletic, the Swede was not in the squad as the club is “insisting that his minutes are being managed and it is unconnected to his future”.
Newcastle have repeatedly made it clear that Isak is not for sale.