Newcastle United have rejected an opening bid from Liverpool for Swedish striker Alexander Isak. The Magpies valued their No. 9 at around £150 million, while the Reds’ proposal fell short of that mark.

Liverpool submitted their first formal offer on Friday, August 1, worth £110 million plus add-ons. Though incentives pushed the package closer to £120 million, it still failed to meet Newcastle’s valuation.

Isak has been left out of Newcastle’s pre-season tour of Asia, as he explores a potential move away from St. James’ Park despite the club’s qualification for the upcoming Champions League campaign.

Reports indicate the Reds and the Swedish international’s camp have reached a verbal agreement over personal terms, with only the transfer fee standing in the way of finalising the deal.

The 25-year-old has been training at the facilities of his former club, Spanish side Real Sociedad, while awaiting developments on his move.

Liverpool, reigning Premier League champions for the 2024/25 season, initially approached Newcastle last month regarding the striker and have now followed up with an official bid.

The Merseyside club has been one of the biggest spenders in this summer’s transfer window, completing a record-breaking £110 million move for Florian Wirtz.

Other notable arrivals include Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong, Giorgi Mamardashvili, and Armin Pecsi, all acquired for a combined total of around £265 million, excluding add-ons.

Manager Arne Slot is reportedly eager to add a striker to his attack before the new campaign begins.

Meanwhile, Liverpool has parted ways with several first-team players, including Luis Díaz, Jarell Quansah, Caoimhin Kelleher, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, for a combined initial fee of £115 million.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, when asked about the possibility of losing Isak, said, “He’s contracted to us. We, to a degree, control what is next for him. I would love to believe that all possibilities are still available to us, and my wish is that he stays, but that’s not in my full control.”