Liverpool offer Alexander Isak ultimatum to Newcastle
The Magpies' lack of a centre forward was sorely exposed - with Liverpool target Alexander Isak in exile.
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Anthony Gordon played up front instead of the 25-year-old Swede - but he and his teammates could not prevent the Geordies from drawing a blank.
The atmosphere turned toxic in the aftermath - with Newcastle fans making their feelings known over Isak's conduct as he seeks a move to Anfield.
Isak to Liverpool in the next seven days
It's hard to see a way back for the forward - and the sooner he's allowed to complete his move to Liverpool the better. Newcastle will need to sign a new striker in his place - with Goncalo Ramos the latest name in the frame.
This situation is currently helping nobody and the signs are that the saga is heading for a speedy conclusion. That's according to a new report from Sacha Tavolieri - who claims Liverpool have given Newcastle a one-week timeframe in which to agree a deal.
Liverpool won't wait forever
'Liverpool FC won't wait forever for Alexander Isak,' he wrote on X. 'Despite mutual interest and the Swedish being the top priority, the Reds have set a deadline.
'If no agreement is reached with Newcastle by next week, the door will be wide open for… other targets.'
No way back for Isak
The North East side are looking for around £150m for their star attraction - but the Reds' sporting director Richard Hughes is said to be hopeful of completing a deal for around £135m.
There is little chance of Isak resuming his Newcastle career under the current circumstances - and by this time next week we could see Liverpool end up with their new No9.
Tavolieri's suggestion that the Reds are prepared to move for a different striker is intriguing.
Having seen the likes of Joao Pedro, Benjamin Sesko, Victor Osimhen and Jonathan David move elsewhere this summer there a relatively few other names in the frame.
Maybe it could be Bradley Barcola - or else Hughes and head coach Arne Slot have a different name in mind.
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