It is no secret that Alexander Isak has taken admiring looks from Liverpool. But Newcastle United does not want to sell their star striker, so how do the Reds still make a blockbuster transfer?
Sources say that the good impressions of Isak extend beyond the 23 Premier League goals he scored last season.
The evolution under Arne Slot means that a new profile of attacker is needed for the system and his fast, clinical, forward game – combined with a capacity to drop deep, to combine with midfielders and to bring them into play – makes him a natural fit for which they are going.
Darwin Nunez will leave and the word from sources near figures in Anfield's Power Corridors or Power suggests that Slot is looking for an attacker who can connect the team, not just finishing the opportunities.
Liverpool is aware that Newcastle does not want to hear from them this summer, but the main reason for optimism is his contract situation that is dragging.
Newcastle knows what they have in Isak and they know what it is worth in the current market. Internally they talk about Isak as one of the world's top centers forces.
The problem now? He is not paid as one.
Only Mohamed Salah scored more goals than Isak in the competition.
The current deal of Isak runs until 2028, but even though he is their star striker, he is not one of the best earners in Newcastle.
The conversations about a new contract initially started more than a year ago, but plans for an improved deal that were stuck by the beginning of last season.
At the time, negotiations reached a number of obstacles – including some disagreement about a potential release clause, sources indicated.
At the moment, the club is reluctant about the current state of conversations – and it is believed that this is the case because Newcastle keeps everything private to prevent derailing discussions with external noise.
However, they need a solution, or they will lose him.
Isak must become the best paid player of Newcastle. Bruno Guimaraes currently leads their wage structure by more than £ 150,000 a week, and it is assumed that Isak would need nearly £ 200,000 to commit in the long term.
Isak surpassed his XG this season. Opta by Statspleform
Liverpool is alert to the delay and is encouraged prior to the big decision about who will lead their attack next season.
Their interest is real. Although no formal approach has been made, recruitment employees have discussed Isak, and a mega costs in the £ 120 million region are seen as the trigger point for serious conversations.
It would be a big edition, but Liverpool shows ambition. Florian Wirtz arrives. Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk have signed new deals. This is a club that reforms itself at the highest level – and Isak is a player they believe it fits with that vision.
Other names such as Hugo Ekitike and Victor Osimhen (read more about his transfer situation here) have been considered. But Isak stands out for his Premier League trolley and tactical versatility.
If Newcastle cannot quickly find a common land, Liverpool could jump.