Alexander Isak: How the Premier League's most wanted striker ended up with few options

The transfer market has been set abuzz by reports that Alexander Isak wants to leave Newcastle United this summer. According to The Athletic, the 25-year-old striker even preferred to skip the club’s pre-season tour in Asia, although Newcastle officially cited fitness issues for his absence.

Regardless of the circumstances, Isak would represent a high-calibre signing for any side. His appeal is not only based on his qualities as a player, but also on the high price tag Newcastle have set: around £100m.

Several clubs are said to admire the Swedish international and could potentially afford the fee. However, recent developments in the transfer market have significantly narrowed his list of realistic destinations.

Bad timing? Isak left with few options

In the Premier League, Liverpool have been named as potential suitors. The Reds, however, have already secured the signing of Hugo Ekitike in a deal that could rise to £80m, and while Sky Sports claim they still hold an interest in Isak, Newcastle’s asking price has complicated matters.

Liverpool reportedly offered around £120m for the striker prior to finalising the Ekitike transfer, according to The Athletic.

For the Merseyside club to proceed with any further signings, outgoings may be necessary. Darwin Nunez has been tipped as a possible departure, while Luis Diaz has reportedly informed club officials of his desire to leave Anfield. A sale of Diaz could raise at least £59m, based on the club’s internal valuation.

With negotiations stalled, Liverpool have turned their attention to Ekitike.

On a sporting level, Isak could arguably improve on the 33 goal involvements he registered in 42 appearances for Newcastle in the 2024-25 Premier League campaign. His skill set is seen as a strong match for Arne Slot’s tactical preferences, which favour quick passing, pressing, attacking runs, and ball control.

Isak is quick, clinical in front of goal, and excels in positioning—making him a natural goalscorer.

Relive every Alexander Isak goal this season ?‍? pic.twitter.com/RumM8mLckS
— Premier League USA (@PLinUSA) June 14, 2025

His profile could also appeal to Manchester United, particularly after attacking inconsistencies during Ruben Amorim’s first season in charge. However, the Red Devils have opted not to join the race. They have instead signed Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford for £71m.

Arsenal, having secured Viktor Gyokeres for £54m plus £8.5m in bonuses (a total of £62.5m), are also not expected to pursue Isak. Chelsea, meanwhile, are focused on other attacking options under Enzo Maresca, with new arrivals Joao Pedro and Liam Delap joining Nicolas Jackson in the squad.

Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich have all been credited with interest but are reportedly unwilling to meet Newcastle’s demands. Barcelona in particular are facing financial difficulties.

Saudi offer gaining traction

By contrast, Al-Hilal are in a position to pay the fee and are actively searching for a new marquee signing to add to Simone Inzaghi’s squad. Given the current conditions, the Saudi side are now seen as frontrunners to secure Isak’s signature, according to AS.

From Newcastle’s perspective, however, Isak is not for sale. The club’s board are not even entertaining the possibility of a departure ahead of the 2025-26 campaign. The striker remains under contract until 2028, and for now, the saga looks set to continue.

This article was originally published on Trivela.