Just because Liverpool could most likely afford Alexander Isak this summer, doesn’t mean they will sign the Newcastle star. After all, they have just recruited an exciting, young centre-forward who shares similar characteristics with the Swede, and a fee of £120–150 million could still dissuade them from pursuing a deal.

The Reds have got no money and we’re gonna win the league’ was the chant when Liverpool went 2-0 up against Newcastle in February. Ironically, five months later, Arne

Then there are Isak’s wages. His exact demands are unknown but given his status as one of the world’s leading players a range of £250,000 to £300,000 a week is far from unreasonable. At that level, the hit to a club would be £15m-£18m annually.

Isak is reported to have turned down the offer of a new contract at Newcastle and has not travelled with the pre-season squad after expressing an interest in leaving the club this summer. The Magpies insist his absence is due to a thigh injury.

Simon Jordan tells Newcastle United what to do with Alexander Isak. The Swedish centre-forward scored 27 goals in all competitions last season, including 23 in the Premier League.

Plus: Arsenal are aiming to move swiftly to secure Crystal Palaces Eberechi Eze; Man Utd have had a loan bid rejected for Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez; West Hams Lucas Paqueta is set to be cleared of charges of spot-fixing;

Manchester United have chosen not to sign Alexander Isak and that is their call, but one player has dropped a ‘bombshell’ with their decision to ‘QUIT’. United front ‘Manchester United have ruled out a move for Alexander Isak – despite the striker’s desire to leave Newcastle’ – David McDonnell, Daily Mirror.

Alexander Isak has donned the No 14 at Newcastle and is considering a move away but that number is occupied at Liverpool - unless the pieces fall into place for it to become vacant