Latest developments
- Alexander Isak reportedly keen on joining Liverpool.
- Newcastle United want to extend the striker's contract.
- Arsenal are also interested in signing the Sweden international.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3/5): Arsenal target sets sights on Liverpool
Arsenal are considered Alexander Isak's long-term admirers but the Newcastle United man is understood to be “very interested” in joining Liverpool.
The story comes TEAMtalk, who add that Isak is also on the Reds' shortlist amid uncertainty over Darwin Nunez's future at Anfield.
Value (2.5/5): Newcastle want a record fee
The Magpies' priority is to hand Isak a new contract. However, should the 25-year-old decide to turn that down, the Saudi-backed outfit are expected to demand as much as £120 million for his services in the summer. A Premier League record fee is bound to make any suitor think twice before making any concrete approach.
Suitability (4/5): Elite movement and finishing
Isak is known for his excellent movement in the final third and 17 goals in the Premier League underline just how brilliant he is in front of the net. More importantly, the player is yet to reach his peak and in all likelihood, is only going to become more lethal in and around the penalty area down the road.
Upgrade? (3.5/5): New talisman
Isak's links with Liverpool have grown stronger due to uncertainty over Nunez's future but Liverpool's attack may also need a new talisman in the summer with Mo Salah expected to depart. The Swede has shown he could lead an attacking line at Newcastle and there's no obvious reason why he couldn't do the same in Merseyside.
Logic (3.5/5): Champions League football key
The report underlines that Isak is keen on playing Champions League football and sixth-placed Newcastle's failure to qualify for the competition could further strengthen his desire to leave. Liverpool, meanwhile, could more or less guarantee that every season, owing to their strong project under Arne Slot.
Whisper+ verdict: 16.5/25
The player makes plenty of sense for the Reds, owing to his on-field exploits. However, Newcastle's price tag could force them to explore alternatives.
