Liverpool is poised to sign Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike, while Newcastle United appears set to retain star player Alexander Isak.
Earlier this week, the situation seemed to be heading in a different direction. Liverpool was reportedly interested in pursuing Isak, and Newcastle had made a £70 million offer for Ekitike. However, the rapidly changing football transfer market has altered the landscape significantly.
BBC Sport examines the developments over the past 72 hours.
Slot's Strategic Move
Liverpool's interest in Ekitike began at the end of last season, following their second Premier League title win, where they scored 86 goals, the highest in the league. Despite Mohamed Salah committing to a new contract, manager Arne Slot prioritized acquiring a new number nine.
Slot had experimented with Darwin Nunez during the season, but it was evident he sought an upgrade. With Nunez potentially leaving for Napoli or Saudi Arabia, Liverpool identified Newcastle's Isak as a dream target, though his £130 million price tag and significance to Eddie Howe made him a challenging acquisition.
As a result, Liverpool considered alternatives like Sporting's Viktor Gyokeres, RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko, Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins, and Brentford's Yoane Wissa. Ultimately, they decided to pursue Ekitike seriously.
While Liverpool's interest in Isak was widely discussed, their approach to Newcastle confirmed it. However, Newcastle was also advancing its interest in Ekitike with a £70 million bid rejected by Eintracht. Within 48 hours, Liverpool shifted focus to Ekitike, likely ending their immediate interest in Isak, while Newcastle explored other options, including Wissa.
Genuine Interest or Smokescreen?
Liverpool's interest in Isak was genuine, although Newcastle publicly stated that their Swedish international was not for sale. Liverpool's intensified efforts to sign Isak suggested private encouragement.
Even if Liverpool secures Ekitike, their interest in Isak may persist. As Isak enters the final two years of his contract next summer, Newcastle faces potential challenges.
Newcastle, with Champions League football on the horizon, is confident in retaining Isak. The club's Saudi ownership is keen on maintaining their top players, including Anthony Gordon and Bruno Guimaraes, to avoid any negative perceptions of their evolving project.
Why Choose Ekitike?
If Liverpool signs Ekitike over Newcastle, the latter may reflect on their decision to pass on a £20 million deal for the French striker three years ago, opting instead for Isak from Real Sociedad.
Ekitike's emergence as a top young striker has significantly increased his value, making it challenging for Newcastle to secure him recently. Liverpool's interest, driven by his 26 goals in 47 appearances for Frankfurt, has resulted in a deal exceeding £70 million.
Liverpool's sporting director Richard Hughes aims to finalize the Ekitike deal by the weekend, while Newcastle continues its search for a new striker. They are interested in Wissa, but Manchester United's bid for Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo may complicate matters.
Brentford is determined to retain Wissa and Mbeumo, despite the current upheaval. Meanwhile, Newcastle believes that retaining Isak is crucial to addressing their challenges.
Newcastle's Future with Isak
Newcastle has consistently stated that Isak is not for sale, especially with Champions League football ahead. The club, owned by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), is in a strong financial position.
Isak, with three years remaining on his contract, would need to actively seek a move. Football finance expert Kieran Maguire noted that Newcastle is not under pressure to sell from a financial standpoint. The club's financial losses are expected to decrease, aided by increased revenues and Champions League qualification.
Ultimately, Newcastle's ability to retain Isak and other key players will depend on their willingness to stay, as the club has room to increase its wage bill further.
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