Isak to Liverpool: Newcastle ‘betrayer’ advised by French World Cup winner

Former France defender Frank Leboeuf has commented on Liverpool’s reported interest in Alexander Isak.

Reports emerged on Tuesday that the Reds have approached Newcastle United regarding the potential signing of their star forward, although they have not submitted a formal offer due to the Magpies’ firm stance that the forward is not for sale.

As reported by The Athletic, the Merseyside club have expressed interest in a deal worth around £120million, highlighting their long-standing admiration for the 25-year-old striker.

Alongside Isak, Eintracht Frankfurt's Hugo Ekitike is also on Liverpool's transfer radar, yet there has been no official contact regarding him.

In light of the recent tragic passing of Diogo Jota, Liverpool are aware of the need to further bolster their squad this summer, particularly in finding a top No. 9 to enhance their forward line.

They have already broken their transfer record with the acquisition of Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen for an initial £100m.

Speaking on ESPN, Leboeuf stated that he would understand it if the striker’s head were turned, even if fans are likely to see the situation differently.

“It’s obvious that you have more chances to win with Liverpool than with Newcastle,” the 1998 World Cup-winning defender stated.

“It’s a tricky situation for Isak, you would be a betrayer for the Magpies and an opportunist, but that’s football.

“I would completely understand Isak if he decides to go to Liverpool, and I would understand the fans to be so much disappointed by losing one of the best strikers in Europe.

“It’s better if he doesn’t say anything.”

Isak has scored 62 goals in 109 appearances for Newcastle since 2022, notching 54 in 86 Premier League games, with last season's 23 in 34 the striker's finest league return to date.

Liverpool beat Preston 3-1 on Sunday, July 13, in their first game since returning for pre-season training. The Reds’ next fixture is against Serie A side AC Milan on July 26.