A shock club has entered the race to sign Alexander Isak after he told Newcastle United that he wants to explore his options this summer.
Isak established himself as one of the leading forwards in England following his ultra-prolific campaign in the Premier League last season.
He scored an impressive 23 goals in 34 league games, having bagged 21 goals in 30 league games in the 2023/24 term.
His future has been clouded by uncertainty despite Newcastle qualifying for the Champions League, with the star forward informing his club he wants to explore his options during the transfer window.
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Liverpool remain interested in signing Isak even though they splashed out £79 million to acquire Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt.
The Reds have been long-term admirers of the 25-year-old, who remains on their radar ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Arne Slot's team, however, face competition from domestic rivals Chelsea as they may consider a move, given they have the financial muscle to strike a deal.
Per the Independent, Chelsea 'would require a deviation from recent targets and a switch in profile given Isak's age and career trajectory'.
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However, according to Sacha Tavolieri, Isak's 'preferred' choice is Liverpool.
Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal are also in the mix and have held 'direct contact' with Newcastle.
A transfer to Al Hilal has been described as 'hard' but the Swede is not closing the door on the Middle East.
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Chelsea have already recruited two forwards this summer, having snapped up Liam Delap from Ipswich Town and Joao Pedro from Brighton.
But it appears the Blues are keeping tabs on Isak's situation ahead of potentially making an official approach.
What has Eddie Howe said about Alexander Isak this summer?
Eddie Howe will be hoping to call upon Isak's services next season, but he admitted he would be 'very silly' to guarantee the player stays at St. James' Park.
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"I don’t think we really have a position other than we love him as a player, we love him as a person, and we want him to stay," he told BBC Radio Newcastle after his side's pre-season defeat at Celtic.
"That is reciprocated right through the club. He’s an outstanding talent, made a big difference to us since he signed, so he’s a player that we cherish really."
Howe added: "I think everyone connected with Newcastle is keen, or more than keen, that he continues his journey with us.
"It’s a great season ahead and hopefully one that Alex will be part of."
Topics: Alexander Isak, Football, Newcastle United, Chelsea, Liverpool
Nasir Jabbar