Will he go or will he stay? That’s the big question surrounding Alexander Isak at Newcastle United right now.
Newcastle have always maintained that Isak is not for sale but now know the player wants to leave. With that, the club has a difficult decision to make.
Liverpool are seriously interested in Isak and as per reports are preparing a £120million British record offer. But if the Magpies are to sell, then £150m is what they are looking for.
With still three years left on his contract, Newcastle are in a strong position. There are two options: keep a player who may be unhappy or sell for a record amount of cash.
If it’s the latter that the club choose, then the pressure will be on to sign a replacement. Clarity on the situation is needed sooner rather than later with the Premier League opener away to Aston Villa just three weeks away.
After that, there are only two weeks in which Newcastle have to get their business done. The only signing so far is Anthony Elanga in a £55million deal from Nottingham Forest.
In a scenario where Isak leaves and Newcastle sign a replacement (or two), we take a look at Eddie Howe’s side could line-up next season:
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Getty Images
2. GK: Nick Pope
Newcastle want Pope to stay, regardless of whether another goalkeeper arrives which, at the moment, looks unlikely anyway. | Getty Images
3. RB: Tino Livramento
Manchester City have shown interest in Livramento but the 22-year-old is going nowhere. Too important and, even by Man City’s standards, too expensive. | Getty Images
4. CB: Fabian Schar
Newcastle are in the market for a right-sided defender but nothing is thought to be close, meaning Schar stays at first choice. | Getty Images