Alexander Isak’s transfer options assessed: Liverpool? PSG? Al Hilal? - The Athletic

Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak has informed the club of his desire to leave this summer, generating significant transfer speculation.

Liverpool holds genuine, long-standing interest in Isak. They previously indicated a willingness to pay around £120 million, but Newcastle's stance that he was not for sale prevented a formal bid, leading Liverpool to sign Hugo Ekitike instead. It's unclear if Liverpool will now pursue Isak again. While highly rated at Anfield as a proven Premier League striker, Liverpool have already invested heavily (nearly £300m this summer, including £79m on Ekitike) and have a crowded forward line, having failed to sell Darwin Nunez and rejecting offers for Luis Diaz. A move for Isak might only become feasible if the situations involving Nunez or Diaz change, but adding him would be a major statement.

Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal possesses the financial resources to complete the deal, backed by the Saudi PIF and billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal. Signing Isak would be a significant coup for Al Hilal and the Saudi Pro League's ambitions, especially after failing to secure Bruno Fernandes and Victor Osimhen. Isak's move would rival the high-profile signings of Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema in the league, though it would likely be seen as a step down in footballing terms. Al Hilal would counter this perception by pointing to their Club World Cup performances and presenting it as an exciting project for Isak to lead.