Alexander Isak's contract plans after Liverpool approach and sudden Newcastle U-turn

The prospect of Alexander Isak making the switch to Anfield this summer remains a possibility despite Liverpool edging nearer to securing Hugo Ekitike's services. The Reds had shown keen interest in Newcastle's prized asset before turning their focus to £79million Eintracht Frankfurt forward Ekitike, who is reportedly set for a medical before completing his transfer.

Liverpool's pursuit of Isak has sparked debate about his future on Tyneside and whether Newcastle's Saudi backers should consider selling. The Sweden international still has three years remaining on his current deal, but The Athletic suggested talks over fresh terms will soon restart following the Magpies' decision to pause pay rise talks around this time last year. Rumours have also intensified after Isak was left out of the Newcastle line-up that lost 4-0 to Celtic in Saturday's pre-season clash.

Nevertheless, the 25-year-old is still expected to link up with his colleagues when they depart for Singapore and South Korea later this week. But that may not be enough to deter Liverpool altogether in targeting another offensive recruit this summer.

Eddie Howe offered a frank assessment when addressing Isak's omission from the Celtic loss, recognising the speculation surrounding his striker. His remarks seemed to hint negotiations for a departure from St. James' Park could materialise in the near future.

"It's difficult for me to give 100% clarity on any player," said the Magpiers boss after the game. "Alex is happy at Newcastle, he loves the players, the staff, the team. I'm confident he'll be here at the start of the season.

"Yes, I've had discussions with him, but that's not abnormal. I respect a player's career and how short it is. Alex has been really good, he's trained really well and I realise there'll be noise around him."

Howe isn't the only key figure in any potential negotiations who has recently spoken out. Gonzalo Gaitan, believed to be one of Isak's agents at sports agency Universal Twenty Two, has also hinted at a possible move.

"We are indeed studying and analysing all options," he recently told Saudi Arabian media outlet Arriyadiyah. "And we may be close to finalising the next step for the player, without revealing any details regarding whether Isak will transfer or stay with Newcastle."

Isak was set to receive a pay rise on his current £150,000-a-week wages at Newcastle when discussions were postponed last summer. While this salary is already substantial, it may not match what the player could earn elsewhere.

It's understood the Magpies put off talks while they were under pressure to fall in line with spending limits. However, the club are keen to retain their star player and plan to proceed with contract discussions later this summer, which could be all the more essential now Liverpool are lurking.

Isak remains a top target for Arne Slot, but Liverpool are now closing in on Ekitike, a player Newcastle were also interested in. It's uncertain whether the Isak saga will quieten down once the Frenchman's signing is finalised.

Ekitike's arrival would bring Liverpool's summer spending to approximately £275m, with over £100m of that used to secure Florian Wirtz. Despite a slow start in terms of spending during his first summer at Anfield, Slot has certainly made up for it after winning the Premier League title.

The price tag for Isak is rumoured to be in excess of £120m, and Newcastle seem determined to keep the player at all costs. However, there may be a chance this resistance could wane, and much will depend on whether Isak is open to renewing his contract at his current club.