Liverpool’s Secret Strategy for Landing Stunning Isak Revealed
Rumors are swirling around Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, with Liverpool reportedly plotting a potential blockbuster move for the Swedish striker. Amidst claims that Newcastle’s Saudi-backed owners could play an unexpected role in the deal, the situation sheds light on the financial intricacies reshaping modern football’s transfer landscape.
The Darwin Núñez Factor and PIF’s Hidden Influence
One of the most intriguing subplots of this transfer saga involves Liverpool’s Darwin Núñez. Reports suggest the Uruguayan forward is a prime target for Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal—a club majority-owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), the same entity that holds an 80% stake in Newcastle.
Should Núñez make the move to Al-Hilal, Liverpool could receive a substantial windfall, potentially streamlining their pursuit of Alexander Isak. However, Newcastle have already rejected a hefty £110m bid, valuing their star man closer to £150m. The Magpies are desperate to retain their talisman, making any potential deal a test of financial and strategic maneuvering.
But here’s the burning question: Would PIF approve a transfer that strengthens Liverpool—likely at Newcastle’s expense—given their ownership ties with both clubs?
Newcastle Fans’ Growing Unease Over PIF’s Loyalties
Newcastle supporters have grown increasingly vocal about their concerns regarding PIF’s true priorities. The Saudi consortium not only owns Newcastle but also holds majority stakes in four top-tier Saudi Pro League clubs, including Al-Hilal. For fans, this multi-club ownership model raises fears that their team is merely a cog in a larger machine.
Charlotte Robson, a Newcastle fan writer, told BBC Sport:
There’s growing discontent among fans about where we stand in PIF’s grand scheme. If they allow another club they own to help fund Liverpool’s move for Isak, it sends a worrying message. Most of us would rather keep our best player than see PIF’s other interests benefit.
Isak was Newcastle’s top scorer last season, and his potential departure would be a bitter pill to swallow—especially after their triumphant Carabao Cup victory in 2023, which ended a 70-year trophy drought. Losing him could feel like a step backward for a club striving to reestablish itself among England’s elite.
Can Liverpool Afford Isak Without Selling Núñez?
Despite whispers of PIF’s involvement, football finance expert Kieran Maguire believes Liverpool have the financial firepower to sign Alexander Isak regardless of Núñez’s future.
Liverpool have already spent around £265m this summer but recouped £115m in player sales, he explained. They could comfortably spend another £200m without breaching financial regulations. While the Núñez-to-Saudi links are interesting, Liverpool’s pursuit of Isak isn’t dependent on it.
Maguire also dismissed theories of a covert deal between PIF-owned clubs:
People are drawing connections where they might not exist. Newcastle don’t want to sell Isak, and Al-Hilal’s interest in Núñez is separate. Liverpool are simply operating within their means—this isn’t a backdoor agreement.
What’s Next for Alexander Isak?
Since his £60m arrival from Real Sociedad in 2022, Isak has been a revelation at St James’ Park. Yet, uncertainty clouds his future. Reports in July suggested he was open to a move, and his absence from Newcastle’s pre-season tour—officially due to injury—only intensified speculation.
After training alone in Spain before returning to Newcastle, manager Eddie Howe has remained steadfast:
Alex needs to prove his fitness before rejoining the squad. As for Liverpool’s interest, there’s been no further contact since their initial bid was rejected.
Newcastle fans remain hopeful, but in today’s footballing world, where financial leverage often dictates outcomes, the final decision may not rest solely with the Magpies.
Conclusion: A High-Stakes Game of Financial Chess
Liverpool’s pursuit of Alexander Isak, coupled with PIF’s multi-club influence, highlights the evolving dynamics of elite football transfers. Will Newcastle’s owners facilitate a deal that indirectly weakens their own side? Can Liverpool push through without overrelying on player sales?
One thing is certain: this saga remains one of the most captivating narratives of the summer transfer window. As the chess pieces move behind the scenes, the fate of Alexander Isak—and the financial power plays surrounding him—will be one to watch.
