Liverpool are preparing to smash the British transfer record with a blockbuster bid for Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak.
Newcastle tries to convince Alexander Isak in vain after Liverpool defeat
Fresh talks were held on Monday between Newcastle and the Swedish forward, but the Magpies are bracing themselves for a formal offer from Anfield.
Isak’s absence from Newcastle’s dramatic 3-2 loss to Liverpool at St James’ Park that same evening has only intensified speculation about his future, with doubts growing over whether he will play for the club again.
Since joining from Real Sociedad in 2022, the 25-year-old has been a revelation, netting 62 goals in just 109 appearances, according to Transfermarkt. His consistency has made him one of Europe’s most sought-after strikers.
Despite Hugo Ekitike’s impressive start at Liverpool, Arne Slot’s side remain determined to add Isak to their attacking options.
Liverpool ready to table British record fee for Alexander Isak
According to TBR Football, Liverpool’s latest proposal is expected to surpass £130 million and could climb close to £140m depending on performance-related add-ons. However, the Reds have no intention of reaching the £150m figure Newcastle are holding out for.
On Newcastle’s side, co-owner Jamie Reuben personally led a delegation in Monday’s meeting with Isak. During the talks, he laid out a plan for the striker’s reintegration into Eddie Howe’s first-team squad if he chooses to stay at Tyneside beyond next week’s transfer deadline.
What is the British transfer record?
The current British transfer record was set on June 20, 2025, when Liverpool secured the signing of Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen.
The deal was worth an initial £100 million, with performance-related add-ons potentially pushing the total to £116 million.
According to ESPN, that figure edged past the previous benchmark of £115 million, which Chelsea had paid to land Moises Caicedo in August 2023.
Newcastle plot plan B should Isak join Liverpool
Meanwhile, Newcastle are scrambling to strengthen their own forward line before the window closes.
Howe’s side have already failed in their pursuit of several top targets this summer, but talks continue with Wolves over Jorgen Strand Larsen, although the £70m price tag remains a stumbling block.
Negotiations are also ongoing with Brentford’s Yoane Wissa, who, along with Larsen, has emerged as a priority target.
Whether or not they land their replacements in time, Newcastle face the real prospect of losing their star striker, with Liverpool ready to test their resolve in the coming days.