Newcastle United have rejected Liverpool’s opening offer to sign Swedish striker Alexander Isak, according to multiple reports on Friday. The bid, believed to be in the region of £110 million plus add-ons, falls short of Newcastle’s valuation of around £150 million.

Isak, 25, has expressed a desire to leave St James’ Park and has been training this week at his former club Real Sociedad’s facilities. Although Newcastle cited a minor thigh injury as the reason for his absence from their pre-season tour of Asia, speculation about his future has intensified.

Since joining the Magpies from Real Sociedad for £60 million in 2022, Isak has become a key figure in Eddie Howe’s squad, scoring 23 Premier League goals last season and playing a pivotal role in securing Champions League qualification.

Liverpool’s interest in the forward has grown in recent months, with new manager Arne Slot looking to further bolster his squad. The Reds have already made significant moves in the summer transfer window, adding Hugo Ekitike, Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong, and Giorgi Mamardashvili to their ranks—bringing their total summer spend to over £250 million.

Despite Newcastle reportedly offering Isak a new contract with a release clause for next year, the striker is said to prefer a move this summer. Manager Eddie Howe remains firm on the club’s stance: “He is still our player. He’s contracted to us. My wish is that he stays, but that’s not in my full control.”

As Liverpool seek to defend their Premier League title and achieve consecutive championships for the first time since the 1980s, they may return with an improved offer—but for now, Newcastle remain determined to keep hold of their prized asset.