Liverpool’s hopes of signing Alexander Isak appear to be over after Newcastle made it clear their star striker is not for sale.
Newcastle’s Saudi owners have decided Isak will not be allowed to move to Anfield this summer and fresh reports say Liverpool have now backed away from the transfer.
Liverpool are also said to have identified a new striker target as an alternative transfer option, having been made been made aware of Newcastle’s refusal to consider a sale when they had a bid worth around £110million rejected last week.
Telegraph Sport report that Newcastle have put their foot down and that they are unlikely to change their stance.
The Reds are now looking at alternative options, with CaughtOffside claiming they are interested in Brentford striker Yoane Wissa.
Wissa scored 19 Premier League goals last season and is valued at £50m.
The DR Congo striker has been linked with a move to Newcastle and has been trying to force through a move to St James’ Park.
After flying home from early from Brentford’s pre-season training camp Portugal last month, Wissa has returned to first-team training at the Bees following constructive talks with their new head coach Keith Andrews.
But he is still seeking a move away, as Liverpool weigh up a move for him.
Liverpool have already spent more than £250m this summer on Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong and Giorgio Mamardashvili.
But they are ready to continue their spending and are still being linked with a move for Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi.
Newcastle’s Saudi owners are adopting a high-risk approach over Isak, with Eddie Howe left having to smooth things over with the Sweden striker.
Howe has been ordered Isak to train away from the Newcastle squad with just a week until the new season starts.
Speaking after Friday 2-2 friendly draw with Espanyol at St James’ Park, Howe said it was “clear” that he “can’t involve” Isak as things stand.
