“Journalist reveals Isak update with ‘banker’ deal now in danger of falling through”

Liverpool’s hopes of landing Alexander Isak before the window closes could depend heavily on whether Newcastle secure a striker of their own.

The Swedish forward, who hit 27 goals last season, is currently in a standoff with the Magpies and is set to skip tonight’s PFA Player of the Year awards despite being shortlisted. His push for a move to Anfield has seen him sidelined by Eddie Howe, while Newcastle are also struggling in their pursuit of Brentford’s Yoane Wissa.

According to Sky Sports, there’s been no fresh approach or new bid for the DR Congo international in recent days. Journalist Craig Hope confirmed on X that Isak’s future is “directly tied” to Newcastle bringing in another striker, with Wissa viewed as the likeliest option. If that deal fails, the chances of Isak being sold fall drastically, though he also stressed that signing Wissa wouldn’t automatically mean Liverpool get their man.

Both players have made it clear they want moves, but Newcastle and Brentford will act in their own best interests rather than simply giving in to player pressure. For now, Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes must bide his time and be ready to act swiftly if Newcastle make progress on Wissa.

A transfer before Liverpool’s clash at St James’ Park next Monday looks improbable, but with the deadline not until 1 September, there’s still room for late drama in what’s become one of the summer’s biggest sagas.