MANCHESTER: Alexander Isak is set to sit out the meeting between his current employers and his preferred destination as a stand-off over the Swede’s future rolls into the final week of the transfer window.
Newcastle insist the 25-year-old will not move unless they can source an adequate replacement and Liverpool meet their British transfer record price tag of a reported £150 mil (about RM633 million).
Liverpool have had one bid worth £110 mil (about RM464 mil) rejected with their business not yet concluded despite splashing £300 mil (about RM1.26 bil) on new recruits.
Isak broke his silence on Tuesday, saying his relationship with Newcastle “can’t continue” after losing trust in the club.
However, the early season form of Hugo Ekitike has tempered the need for Premier League champions Liverpool to meet Newcastle’s demands.
The French forward, who rejected Newcastle’s advances to join the Reds, registered a goal and an assist on his Premier League debut in Liverpool’s rollercoaster 4-2 win over Bournemouth.
The teething problems for Arne Slot’s new-look side have been in stopping the flow of counter-attacks against them, but Liverpool should be stronger for the return of midfielder Ryan Gravenberch from suspension at St James’ Park.
Newcastle’s lack of firepower without Isak was exposed as they failed to break down 10-man Aston Villa in a goalless draw on the opening weekend.
It has been another frustrating week for Eddie Howe in the transfer market as his attempts to land Brentford striker Yoane Wissa have stalled. – AFP
