Latest developments
- Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak is open to joining Barcelona.
- Isak prefers to join Liverpool over Barca.
- Newcastle remain adamant to not lose their star striker.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3/5): Local source hands transfer blow to Barca
Newcastle United striker is open to moving to Barcelona this summer but he would prefer to join Liverpool should they knock on his doors.
That is according to El Nacional, a local Spanish source with a mixed record when it comes to transfer exclusives.
Value (2.5/5): Tough deal for any suitor
Regardless of Isak's preference to move to Anfield, it is not going to be easy for the Reds to sign him from Newcastle, who have reportedly slapped a price tag of £150million on the 25-year-old. The Sweden international is certainly an elite striker but Newcastle's demands could dither any suitor.
Suitability (4/5): Well-rounded striker
Isak is an ideal modern striker, who brings nearly everything to the table needed to play for a European elite. He offers an exciting blend of technical quality and physical traits in and out of possession. With 19 goals in the Premier League, he has also underlined that his finishing ability is second to none.
Upgrade? (4/5): Nunez replacement
The Sweden international should arrive as an obvious Darwin Nunez replacement. Further, with Mo Salah expected to depart Anfield at the end of the season, Isak could become Liverpool's new talisman. His well-rounded style of play would make it easier for Arne Slot to build his attack around the Newcastle star.
Logic (4/5): Premier League stay
Isak is open to returning to LaLiga but his desire to play for Liverpool over the Blaugrana suggests the number nine is keen to continue plying his trade in the Premier League, which is by far the best league in Europe.
Whisper+ verdict: 17.5/25
Liverpool may not have to do a lot of work to convince Isak to join their project, but finding an agreement with Newcastle is going to be an uphill task.
