Liverpool’s Pursuit of Alexander Isak Faces New Obstacles
Liverpool’s summer transfer plans remain dominated by the question of whether Alexander Isak will become the marquee signing at Anfield. The Newcastle United forward has been firmly on the radar, with talk of a record-breaking £130m move, but former Reds midfielder Jan Molby has cast doubt on how advanced those negotiations really are. Speaking to Trev Downey for Anfield Index, Molby provided a frank and revealing take on the state of play.
Isak’s Situation at Newcastle
Molby highlighted the complex dynamics at St James’ Park, particularly around the public comments made by the Swedish striker. He remarked, “I don’t think his statement helped anything. If anything I think it might’ve made Newcastle United’s owners more determined to save face.”
For Molby, the striker has left himself in a vulnerable position. “No one is in any doubt that he wants to leave Newcastle but so far he has stayed away from verbally saying that he wants to leave the club,” he explained. The issue appears to centre around alleged promises made to Isak, though Molby was left unconvinced by how the player handled the situation. “I see the words promises and issues, and I just want him to tell us what those promises are!”
Uncertainty Over Transfer Strategy
What stands out most from Molby’s comments is the lack of clarity regarding Liverpool’s own approach. He stated, “The reliable sources at Anfield can’t even come up with a rumour at the moment. They’re telling me the same things about Isak as what they said four weeks ago about what it would require to get him.”
That sense of inertia could be problematic for the Premier League champions, who are preparing for a demanding season under Arne Slot. Molby questioned the absence of alternative names, warning that if the Isak deal does not progress, Liverpool must have a back-up plan ready.
Pressure Mounting on Both Clubs
The frustration on Tyneside is clear. Newcastle have their own problems in the market and Molby noted that, “Newcastle need to sign at least two strikers and at the moment they can’t even get one through the door. Then there’s a transfer fee that needs to be agreed.”
Meanwhile, Liverpool remain patient but can ill afford to wait indefinitely. The tragic loss of Diogo Jota in July has left a void in the attacking line, and although the squad has depth, Slot knows that goalscoring options must be strengthened. Isak fits the profile perfectly, yet Molby’s words underline how delicate this saga has become.
Molby’s Old-School Perspective
There was also a sense of exasperation from Molby at how modern transfer narratives unfold in public. “I’m 62, and I might be old-fashioned, but when you have an issue with your club and you still have three years left on your contract, then you go and talk with the club and you train and play. Let’s not kid ourselves, you’re contracted to train and play.”
Despite his criticism, Molby added that Liverpool supporters would quickly embrace Isak should he arrive. “Of course I’m disappointed with him at the minute but as soon as he walks through the doors through the Anfield we will be delighted. But he’s only making it more difficult.”
For now, the pursuit of Alexander Isak continues to dominate the headlines. Whether Liverpool can break the transfer record and secure their primary target remains to be seen, but as Molby has made clear, both the player and the clubs involved have serious decisions to make.
