Liverpool Close in on Alexander Isak as Rodrygo Move Fades

Liverpool are on the verge of signing Newcastle United’s star striker Alexander Isak, with the 25-year-old Swede reportedly agreeing to a five-year contract. Meanwhile, the Reds have shelved their interest in Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, focusing on Isak to spearhead their attack for the 2025/26 Premier League season.

Isak’s Transfer Progress

• Contract Agreed: Isak has settled personal terms with Liverpool, with a rumored £300,000 weekly salary. The club is set to submit a £130 million bid, potentially rising to £150 million with add-ons, which would break the British transfer record.
• Why He’s Leaving: Isak, who scored 23 Premier League goals last season, is frustrated with Newcastle’s stalled contract talks and limited transfer activity. His absence from their pre-season tour, officially due to a thigh injury, has intensified speculation.
• Newcastle’s Position: Despite claiming Isak is not for sale, Newcastle’s financial pressures and interest in a replacement striker make a deal feasible. Liverpool’s £88 million sale of Luis Díaz to Bayern Munich funds the move.

Rodrygo Pursuit Dropped

• No Longer a Target: Liverpool have backed away from Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, previously linked as a Díaz replacement. The 24-year-old Brazilian’s £80 million price tag has dropped, but Liverpool’s signings of Hugo Ekitiké (£79 million) and wingers Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez shift their focus to Isak.
• Other Interest: Arsenal, PSG, Tottenham, and Bayern Munich are circling Rodrygo, who is no longer a priority for Real Madrid’s new manager.

Context and Impact
Liverpool’s £270 million summer spending reflects their ambition to dominate under Arne Slot, who won the Premier League last season. Isak’s 27 goals in 42 games make him ideal to replace Díaz and possibly Darwin Núñez, linked with Al-Hilal and AC Milan. A record-breaking deal for Isak would cement Liverpool’s attacking overhaul, but Newcastle’s high valuation poses a challenge.

Developing Story
Liverpool plan to formalize their Isak bid within 48 hours, with the transfer window closing September 1. Rodrygo’s future remains open, but Liverpool’s priority is clear: landing Isak as their new star striker. Note: Transfer fees and terms are based on recent reports and may change as negotiations unfold.