Liverpool get Alexander Isak green light as Newcastle find replacement

Liverpool have been linked with several star forwards ahead of the summer transfer window. Hugo Ekitike, Joao Pedro and Matheus Cunha are just some of the names in the frame to arrive at the club.

With question marks persisting over Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez, it’s reckoned that Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes are ready to move for upgrades.

READ MORE: Liverpool now in talks to FINALLY land 23-goal striker

By far the biggest name in the shakeup for an Anfield transfer is Alexander Isak. The Swede has scored 21 goals and added six assists in 30 Premier League outings this season, becoming the hottest property ahead of the market opening.

READ MORE: Liverpool star now on brink of transfer U-TURN

The 25-year-old remains under contract at Newcastle until 2028, meaning the Magpies are currently well protected from a transfer fee perspective.

Indeed it’s been reported that the Carabao Cup champions would require £150 million before considering parting ways with their star attraction.

Newcastle find Isak successor in France

However, there are signs of a thaw in Newcastle’s stance with the news that they are ready to move on from Isak by identifying a successor.

Emmanuel Emegha, 22, has been a revelation for RC Strasbourg in the French league this season. The Dutchman has scored 13 Ligue 1 goals, helping the BlueCo-owned side into contention for the Champions League places.

Inevitably, Chelsea have been linked but now L’Equipe is reporting that Newcastle are also in the frame for his signature. The 6’5 forward is under contract at Strasbourg until 2028, having joined from Austrian side Sturm Graz in 2023.

He is looking like a top prospect ready for the next step in his career. And if Newcastle get their hands on him then Liverpool could be one step closer to landing Isak.

Time ticking down on Isak at Newcastle

His current club were hoping to price him out of the market but will be aware that as a world-class No9 he will want to play Champions League football.

Newcastle are currently in the mix for a top-five spot but it will become harder to hold onto the former Borussia Dortmund man should they miss out.

READ MORE: The THREE players Liverpool will sign instead of Alexander Isak

And given Isak has three years on his contract, time will soon be ticking down for the North East side and they may need to make a compromise on the asking price.