BARCELONA URGES ISAK TO TURN DOWN LIVERPOOL: Barcelona has advised Alexander Isak to hold off on making a transfer decision this summer and decline any offers, including those from Liverpool.

Newcastle United has decided to put contract talks with Alexander Isak on hold after the Swedish forward turned down their initial extension offer.

Isak has been a key player for the Magpies, netting 58 goals in 100 appearances, which has drawn attention from elite European clubs such as Liverpool, Arsenal, and Barcelona.

Although his current contract runs until 2028, Newcastle reportedly initiated discussions for a renewal. However, Isak was not satisfied with the club’s first proposal. Last week, he refuted claims that negotiations between his representatives and Newcastle were still ongoing.

Both Liverpool and Arsenal are actively searching for a top-class striker. Liverpool’s current No. 9, Darwin Núñez, has struggled with consistency, prompting the club to consider offloading him to make way for a new signing. Meanwhile, Arsenal is keen on bolstering their attacking options.

Barcelona is also keeping an eye on Isak as they look for a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski.

While Isak is said to prefer a move to Spain, he is also open to joining Liverpool, a club he has admired for a long time.

Financially, Liverpool is in a stronger position than Barcelona, given the Spanish club’s ongoing financial difficulties. With Newcastle likely to demand over $100 million for their star striker, Liverpool’s financial power and established ties with Isak’s representatives could be significant factors in any potential deal.