“David Ornstein provides Isak update, says transfer may be decided at the last minute”

David Ornstein: Isak’s Move to Liverpool Still on the Table as Deadline Approaches

David Ornstein has reported that a transfer to Liverpool for Alexander Isak remains a possibility in the final week of the summer window.

The Newcastle striker’s future is uncertain after he effectively refused to play in an effort to force through a move to Anfield. He was absent from his side’s 3-2 loss to Liverpool at St James’ Park last night.

Newcastle previously turned down a £110 million bid from Liverpool earlier this month and have consistently stated that Isak won’t be sold unless manager Eddie Howe is able to secure a suitable replacement before the window closes next Monday.

Isak Situation May Come to a Head in Coming Days

In the latest edition of The Athletic’s Transfer DealSheet, published Tuesday, Ornstein discussed the current status of the potential move.

He wrote that while no major developments were expected until after Newcastle’s clash with Liverpool, now that the match is behind them, some clarity may emerge soon.

Although Newcastle have made it clear they don’t want to part with the Swedish striker, their ongoing efforts to sign replacements—such as Yoane Wissa and Jorgen Strand Larsen—suggest their stance could change.

Ornstein added that if Newcastle manage to secure the attacking reinforcements they’re looking for, and if Liverpool return with a more compelling bid, a deal for Isak could still materialize before the deadline. However, there are many variables, and no outcome is guaranteed—it could go right down to the wire.

A Dramatic Finish or a Dead End?

With just days left in the window, Newcastle face pressure to either reintegrate Isak or bring in another forward, while Liverpool must decide whether to pursue a second bid for the 25-year-old.

Both clubs will likely be relieved that last night’s high-stakes match is behind them, as it added further intrigue to an already tense situation surrounding Isak—who continues to dominate transfer headlines.

If Liverpool manage to get a deal done, they’ll be adding a top-tier striker to an already potent attack. Isak’s 23 Premier League goals last season were second only to Mohamed Salah.

If Newcastle hold firm, however, Liverpool can still rely on Hugo Ekitike, who has impressed with a goal in each of his first three appearances since arriving from Eintracht Frankfurt in July.

One way or another, this transfer saga is nearing its conclusion. The only question is whether it fizzles out or delivers a dramatic finish before Monday night.