If you don't sign him, Arsenal will win the league - Liverpool warned over Alexander Isak transfer

The Premier League title race for the upcoming season is already heating up, with a bombshell warning issued to Liverpool regarding their pursuit of Newcastle United's prolific forward, Alexander Isak. 

Former top-flight referee Mark Clattenburg, speaking on Daily Mail's Whistleblowers podcast, has declared that failure to secure Isak's signature could see Arsenal snatch the coveted trophy from the reigning champions. 

According to Clattenburg, Arsenal are poised to become a "stronger" force next season, following the strategic acquisitions made to address previous weaknesses. 

"Gyokeres signing for Arsenal is genius," Clattenburg said on the podcast, referring to their new Swedish goal machine.

 Clattenburg further elaborated: 'Arsenal have been missing goals, they needed that leader upfront. If Liverpool don't get Isak – I could see the league being really competitive this year.’

Coupled with the arrival of former Reds target Martin Zubimendi, Mikel Arteta's side, despite finishing 10 points behind Liverpool last season, is tipped for a significant resurgence - a formidable challenge that Liverpool must prepare for by strengthening their own ranks.

Clattenburg's dire prediction for Liverpool stems from perceived vulnerabilities within their squad, particularly a potential decline in key personnel. 

The former Premier League referee believes that the departure of Luis Diaz and an anticipated "Mohamed Salah decline in form," with Salah "losing his pace," could significantly weaken the Reds. 

Despite a substantial £263 million summer outlay on talents like Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez, and Jeremie Frimpong, Clattenburg argues that Liverpool still have "work to do in the market." 

He even suggested that Liverpool's impressive points tally last season was somewhat deceptive, benefiting from rivals' inconsistencies. 

'I enjoyed watching Liverpool last season, but nearer the end, they were caught short a little bit.’ Clattenburg said.

He added: 'A lot of the teams around them suffered – and I felt Liverpool were just slightly better than they were.

'City were poor, Chelsea were indifferent, United and Tottenham weren't as strong. They weren't all beating each other, which normally happens.

'They maintained some form while the rest dipped – but Arsenal look so much stronger this year, and I think they'll challenge a lot more.'

The Alexander Isak transfer saga has reached a fever pitch, with multiple reports indicating significant developments in the past few days.

Sky Germany's Florian Plettenberg and transfer guru Fabrizio Romano have both reported that Alexander Isak is only waiting for Liverpool after "agreeing verbal terms."

 This agreement signals Isak's clear desire for the move.

However, Newcastle United's stance remains resolute.

 Despite Isak reportedly informing the club of his wish to explore a move away, Newcastle's owners are reportedly less keen on losing their prolific forward, especially given his three years remaining on his contract and a reported valuation of £150 million. 

Manager Eddie Howe himself admitted recently that Isak's future is "not in my full control," yet also stressed, "We have not received a formal offer for Alex, from any club. My wish is that he stays."

The coming days are set to be crucial as Liverpool prepares what is expected to be a British transfer record offer, potentially reaching £130 million, as reported by the The Standard, in a bid to finally prize the Swede away from St James' Park.