Liverpool could now have the “upper hand” when it comes to signing Alexander Isak this summer, according to expert Keith Wyness.
The Reds’ pursuit of the Newcastle United striker has been of the biggest talking point this summer, with the Swede still hellbent on leaving St James’ Park for Anfield.
Isak released an explosive statement on Tuesday evening – one that suggests that Newcastle haven’t kept their promise of allowing him to leave – but his club are remaining adamant that he isn’t for sale.
Speaking to Football Insider, Wyness claimed that Liverpool may have the “upper hand” with Isak this summer, even though the situation remains complex.
“I don’t think anybody’s got the upper hand right now. I think it’s three parties here and nobody’s got really the upper hand. I don’t think Isak’s got the upper hand. We’ve seen so much player power now. We’re talking about Wissa and Brentford, Isak and Newcastle.
“It’s been the window of players really throwing their toys out of the pram. We’re seeing Newcastle with a weakened position as well. I wonder if Isak and his agent are getting a little bit worried that Liverpool are going to leave them high and dry.
“You do get the feeling they’ve been promised ‘Don’t worry, we’re going to come in for you, don’t worry’. And then all of a sudden ‘Sorry, we couldn’t quite come in for you’. I don’t think anybody’s sleeping well at night of all three parties here. I think Liverpool have got the upper hand if they decide to spend the money. I think that’s the case.”
Will Isak to Liverpool get sorted this summer?
This feels like a saga that is going to rumble on, with Isak’s relationship with Newcastle becoming more damaged by the day, ahead of the Reds’ trip to St James’ next Monday night.
It’s now up to the Premier League champions to table a second offer for the 25-year-old and see what the Magpies’ response is, even if they reject it and continue to be stubborn.
Ultimately, there is nothing Liverpool can do if Newcastle simply refuse to budge, but if they bring in the right replacements for Isak, it is still easy to see a deal with the Reds being struck this summer.
