Liverpool are plotting an opening bid for Alexander Isak after receiving “the green light” over their move for the Newcastle striker.
Eddie Howe admitted on Tuesday that Isak’s future is not in his “full control” and fresh reports claim Liverpool are ready to open formal talks with Newcastle about a deal.
A report from Sky Switzerland says Isak has provisionally agreed a five-year contract at Anfield and that Liverpool are planning an opening offer of around £100million.
Newcastle want £150m but Liverpool are said to believe they can secure a deal for around £120m that would take their spending this summer beyond £400m.
The report says a meeting is scheduled between the two clubs “in the next 48 hours”, as Newcastle brace themselves for an official offer for their star striker.
Isak is not part of the Newcastle squad on their pre-season tour of Asia.
Speaking in South Korea on Tuesday, Howe confirmed Newcastle are yet to receive an offer for Isak but admitted his future is not in his “full control”.
But Howe did reiterate that Newcastle are in a strong position over Isak, who has three years remaining on his £120,000-a-week contract.
Howe said: “He is still our player. He’s contracted to us. We, to a degree, control what is next for him. I would love to believe all possibilities are still available to us. My wish is that he stays, but that’s not in my full control.”
Howe added: “We have not received a formal offer for Alex, from any club. My wish is that he stays and we see him playing again next year.”
Liverpool have already spent over £300m on Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong and Giorgi Mamardashvili this summer.
