The Newcastle United striker was among Liverpool’s early targets this summer before the Premier League champions chose Hugo Ekitike instead.

Isak had been on their radar, and discussions took place regarding a £120 million deal. However, Newcastle’s determination to retain their star forward caused negotiations to stall.

Although open to a potential transfer, Isak has never aggressively sought an exit. Now, he finds himself in a complex situation. No transfer opportunities have emerged, and Newcastle has yet to meet his contract demands.

At the core of the issue is a considerable disparity between Newcastle's valuation of him and what they are willing to pay.

They continue to assert that Isak is valued at between £125 million and £150 million in the current market. Yet, the Sweden international currently earns just over £100,000 weekly.

His representatives, recognizing his worth and the forward’s significance to the club, are reportedly advocating for wages up to £300,000 a week for a new contract to remain on Tyneside.

Sources indicate that Newcastle, on their part, are not prepared to exceed £200,000 a week at this time.

Isak is under contract until 2028, and Newcastle feels no urgency to sell. However, they are starting to consider attacking reinforcements again this transfer window.

Ekitike and Joao Pedro were both on their list before committing to Liverpool and Chelsea respectively.

A £25 million offer forYoane Wissa has already been turned down by Brentford, who are hesitant to part with another key forward after selling Bryan Mbeumo to Manchester United. The club assured new manager Keith Andrews that they would not lose both players.

Newcastle is planning another bid for Wissa but is also monitoring RB Leipzig’s Lois Openda as a potential alternative.

There are also discussions about Saudi interest in Isak. While the player is believed to be open to the idea, Newcastle might find a move outside the Premier League more acceptable than selling to a domestic rival. Nevertheless, their ideal scenario remains to retain him for the upcoming season.

For now, Isak is caught in a dilemma. No significant offers on the table, no agreement on a new contract - and a club that values him as elite but compensates him below that standard.

Something must change.

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