Liverpool handed huge Alexander Isak boost as Newcastle hijack deal for Manchester United target…

Liverpool has initiated a swap deal with Newcastle as the situation surrounding Alexander Isak suggests a return is probable.

The two clubs were on the verge of a transaction last summer – could history repeat itself this time?

Liverpool and Newcastle United may find themselves embroiled in a transfer battle for the second year in a row. Looking back a year, the two clubs were reportedly close to finalizing a deal that would have seen two prominent players exchanged between them.

According to the Daily Mail, Liverpool had shown interest in Anthony Gordon, with reports indicating they had agreed to a £75 million deal with Newcastle. In contrast, Newcastle was thought to be proposing £45 million for the services of the sidelined defender Joe Gomez.

Although the transactions for accounting purposes wouldn’t have officially been classified as a player plus cash swap, it is said that the negotiations were nearing completion, with Gordon even considering the possibility of undergoing a medical.

Ultimately, the deals fell through, resulting in Gordon remaining at Newcastle and Gomez staying at Liverpool, where he earned a second league winner’s medal.

Nevertheless, there is a chance for a similar scenario to unfold this summer, as both Liverpool and Newcastle are interested in players from each other’s rosters. For Liverpool, the spotlight is on Alexander Isak, as Arne Slot aims to solidify the forefront of his attack.

On the other hand, Newcastle is reportedly interested in the departing star Harvey Elliott, who excelled during England’s recent under-21 Euros tournament.

The former Fulham prodigy is anticipated to leave Anfield before the new season, having struggled for playing time under the new manager Slot.

Any potential agreement involving Isak is likely to exceed the amount Liverpool would have invested in Gordon last summer, as Newcastle is believed to value the striker at over £150 million.

However, considering that both clubs were reportedly open to negotiations last summer, who’s to say they won’t reconnect and resume talks in the upcoming weeks and months?

Plans may be affected by Newcastle’s PSR circumstances, considering the North East team has faced limitations in the past. In fact, former co-owner Amanda Staveley was compelled to divest all her shares in the club to prevent any PSR-related penalties for Newcastle.

She shared with The Athletic: “I was aware of what was on the horizon regarding my departure, but the fans and PIF warranted my complete attention.

If I had exited prior to the PSR deadline and we had violated it, that would have been detrimental. It was extremely challenging, but I was resolute in ensuring that [Newcastle CEO] Darren [Eales] had a clear path ahead.”