Newcastle United could face fresh pressure to keep hold of star striker Alexander Isak, despite Liverpool FC ending their pursuit of the Swedish international. The Reds have now turned their full attention to signing Hugo Ekitike, leaving the door open for Saudi giants Al-Hilal to swoop in for Isak.
Liverpool have long admired Isak and even made contact with Newcastle earlier this week. However, their focus has dramatically shifted, with the Merseyside club now in advanced negotiations to sign Ekitike in a deal worth over £70 million. The French forward is said to be enthusiastic about a move to Anfield, and personal terms are not expected to be an obstacle.
While Newcastle may have dodged a Premier League transfer battle, they now face a potentially even bigger challenge. According to Sky Sport Italy, Al-Hilal are preparing a ‘massive offer’ for Isak, aiming to make a high-profile signing in response to Al-Nassr’s pursuit of Feyenoord defender David Hancko.
The report claims that Al-Hilal’s hierarchy is eager to outshine their Saudi Pro League rivals by landing a marquee forward like Isak. With both Newcastle United and Al-Hilal owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) — Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund — the deal would not be hindered by ownership issues.
Despite growing interest, Newcastle remain firmly against selling their 25-year-old striker, who has been crucial to their attacking setup. The Magpies are determined to resist any bids before the transfer window closes, but a blockbuster proposal from Al-Hilal could test their resolve.
As the transfer window heats up, all eyes will be on whether Newcastle can keep hold of their star man — or if the Saudi Pro League is about to land another elite talent.