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Newcastle United fans believe they've identified the moment star striker Alexander Isak's head was turned by Liverpool

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Newcastle's transfer window has so far been dominated by the ongoing saga involving Swedish international Isak and a prospective move to Liverpool. The Magpies are keen to retain the 25-year-old, who scored 27 times across all competitions last season, but Isak has reportedly made clear to his employer that he intends to pursue a move elsewhere this summer. Liverpool tested Newcastle's resolve with a £110 million proposal, which fell some way short of the club's valuation and as a result was promptly rejected. The Reds are yet to return with an improved offer but if Newcastle are successful in signing a striker, it could pave the way for Isak's departure. Fans on social media have speculated upon the moment Isak's head was turned by Liverpool's interest after it emerged the striker told head coach Eddie Howe of his desire to leave the club before the end of last season. A clip has circulated from Wembley Stadium back in March when Newcastle were crowned Carabao Cup champions at Liverpool's expense, ending their 70-year domestic trophy drought. Isak scored a decisive goal in that fixture, to put Newcastle into a two-nil lead shortly after the restart, and was pictured chatting to Anfield skipper Virgil van Dijk at full-time. Supporters believe it was in the immediate aftermath of Newcastle's Wembley victory that Isak was made aware of Liverpool's hopes to sign him. The best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week. The players' exchange, in which their mouths are occluded from view, has given rise to speculation that Van Dijk may have expressed a desire to play alongside the Swede at Anfield. Van Dijk shakes hands with a number of Newcastle players before embracing Isak, pausing and leaning into the ex-Real Sociedad striker as he appears to say something of more substance than a simple congratulations. The pair then lock eyes as Van Dijk fires Isak what could be described as a knowing look. Various reports state Isak's preference is to join the Reds with the Sweden international also rumoured to have vacated his Tyneside property. It is also claimed Isak is 'adamant' he has played his final game for the Magpies. Newcastle's valuation is understood to be £150m, although this figure may be revised if Liverpool return with a second formal offer that is structured in a way which sees Newcastle receive a large portion of any transfer fee up front. Started here didnt it, moments after we won our first domestic trophy in 70 years. No respect from him whatsoever pic. twitter. com/0KDks Po RM1August 12, 2025 Isak - regarded by many as one of the best strikers in world football currently - has three years remaining on his Newcastle contract. The summer transfer window closes on the evening of Monday, September 1. Joe joined Four Four Two as senior digital writer in July 2025 after five years covering Leeds United in the Championship and Premier League. Joe's 'Mastermind' specialist subject is 2000s-era Newcastle United having had a season ticket at St. James' Park for 10 years before relocating to Leeds and later London. Joe takes a keen interest in youth football, covering PL2, U21 Euros, as well as U20 and U17 World Cups in the past, in addition to hosting the industry-leading football recruitment-focused SCOUTED podcast. He is also one of the lucky few to have 'hit top bins' as a contestant on Soccer AM. It wasn't a shin-roller. You must confirm your public display name before commenting Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.

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