Surprise new Alexander Isak rumour arrives just as Liverpool saga dies down

Newcastle United appear to have successfully fended off Liverpool’s interest in Alexander Isak,  but the rumour mill continues to turn.

There has barely been time to unwind from the saga involving Newcastle, Liverpool, Isak and Hugo Ekitike, yet fresh gossip coming from Italy has seen the Toon’s talisman dragged into another story.

One thing is for sure. Another long summer lies ahead with seemingly all parties interest in Newcastle’s No. 14.

Saudi interested in Isak? 

Al-Hilal are “considering a massive offer” for Newcastle centre-forward Alexander Isak, according to Sky Italia reporter Gianluca Di Marzio.

Newcastle’s stance is not clear in the report, but it has been suggested that in excess of £150m would be needed to even enter talks over a possible deal.

The PIF-owned Saudi Arabian side, coached by Simone Inzaghi are looking to make a huge statement in the market this summer and could spend an exorbitant amount on Isak if they so wish.

With no financial regulations imposed on the Saudi Pro League, as the Premier League has with PSR, there are no bounds to the fee and wages that could be on offer in order to get a deal over the line.

Unlikely, but not unquestionable

Di Marzio tags onto his report that there would be “no issues” with a potential transfer, despite both clubs sharing PIF ownership. The decision may ultimately come down to Isak.

Maybe I’m in the first stage of grief, but surely at this stage of his career Isak wouldn’t move to Saudi Arabia - though you can imagine the wages on offer will be astronomical. 

The likes of Ruben Neves, Moussa Diaby, and Ivan Toney have shown that players are willing to move to Saudi for the prime years of their career, but Isak is a level above those aforementioned.

At 25, you would imagine he’s better served staying in Europe, where he can compete at the highest level, play in the Champions League and increase his chances of a Ballon d’Or nod.