Liverpool could be creative this summer to tempt Newcastle into selling Alexander Isak
Liverpool could offer four-player swap package to land Alexander Isak
Liverpool remain firmly in pursuit of Newcastle United’s prized asset Alexander Isak, as Arne Slot looks to add an elite centre-forward to his Premier League title-winning squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Isak, 25, enjoyed a blistering season on Tyneside, hitting 23 goals in the Premier League to spearhead Newcastle’s successful push for Champions League qualification. Since arriving from Real Sociedad in 2022, the Swedish international has amassed 62 goals in 109 appearances for the Magpies, cementing his status as one of Europe’s most clinical finishers.
However, Newcastle have reportedly placed a staggering £150m valuation on their star striker — a fee that would smash Liverpool’s already hefty outlay on Florian Wirtz and test FSG’s financial parameters. As such, discussions have now shifted toward the possibility of a player-plus-cash package to help broker a breakthrough.
Here are four players Liverpool could offer Newcastle to help get a deal for Isak over the line:
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Darwin Nunez
Despite his physicality and energy, Darwin Nunez has failed to fully convince at Anfield since his £85m arrival from Benfica in 2022. The 25-year-old remains a divisive figure among the fanbase after a mixed goal return, and speculation persists linking him with a summer move to the Saudi Pro League.
However, Liverpool may look to keep the Uruguay international in the Premier League by offering him to Newcastle as part of an Isak package. With his raw pace, aggressive pressing and aerial ability, Nunez could offer Eddie Howe a different dimension in attack, particularly if the Magpies lose their main goal threat.
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Andy Robertson
Should Milos Kerkez’s £45m move from Bournemouth be finalised, long-serving left-back Andy Robertson could find his game time drastically reduced next season.
The Scotland international, who has won every major trophy during his glittering Anfield career, is approaching the final year of his contract and has also attracted interest from Atletico Madrid.
While Robertson’s preference may be to move abroad, Liverpool could propose Newcastle as an alternative destination. For Howe’s side, his experience, leadership and relentless work rate would be a valuable addition, especially with Champions League football on the horizon.
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Jarell Quansah
At just 22, Jarell Quansah remains one of Liverpool’s brightest defensive prospects but found himself behind Ibrahima Konaté and Virgil van Dijk in the pecking order last term.
Newcastle, who are actively seeking young defenders, could see Quansah as a long-term building block for their backline. Slotting into a team playing regular Champions League football could accelerate his development — and his inclusion in any deal would significantly reduce Liverpool’s upfront financial commitment for Isak.
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Harvey Elliott
Harvey Elliott is another player whose future could hinge on Liverpool’s ongoing recruitment drive. With Florian Wirtz’s imminent arrival set to further congest the competition for places in attacking midfield, Elliott’s pathway into the starting XI could narrow.
The 22-year-old already boasts 147 senior appearances for Liverpool and offers creativity, versatility and energy — traits that could bolster Newcastle’s midfield options. Including Elliott in negotiations could tempt Newcastle, particularly as they look to strengthen their squad depth for the Champions League campaign ahead.
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Liverpool’s pursuit of Isak remains alive — but costly
Liverpool’s interest in Alexander Isak is both ambitious and complicated. Newcastle remain in a strong financial position and under no pressure to sell, but a creative deal involving multiple Liverpool assets could shift the dynamics.
Should Liverpool succeed, they would secure one of the most complete No.9s in European football, pairing Isak’s elite finishing with Wirtz’s creative spark — a partnership that could propel Slot’s side to new heights.
The summer saga is far from over.