EPL Transfer News: Isak, Ekitike, Forest and More

Liverpool’s Pursuit of Alexander Isak

Liverpool have not abandoned their ambitions of signing Swedish striker Alexander Isak from Newcastle United, despite firm resistance from the Magpies.

Reports indicate that the Reds are prepared to pay up to £120 million for the 25-year-old, who has been a standout performer at St James’ Park since his £63 million move from Real Sociedad in the summer of 2022.

However, the PA news agency confirms there has been no formal approach from Liverpool. Sources on Merseyside suggest Isak is one of several targets under consideration as the Reds aim to strengthen their forward line following the death of Diogo Jota and potential exits of Darwin Nunez and Federico Chiesa.

Currently training in Austria with his Newcastle teammates, Isak has three years remaining on his current contract. Newcastle are working to extend his deal further and have placed a valuation of £150 million on him to deter interested clubs.

Despite their interest in Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike—who is also on Liverpool’s radar—sources in the North East maintain that Ekitike would be an additional forward, not a replacement for Isak.

Arsenal Still Chasing Viktor Gyökeres

Arsenal remain hopeful of finalising a move for Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyökeres in time for their pre-season tour. A prior agreement was reportedly reached, with the Gunners ready to pay £55.1 million plus £8.7 million in performance-based bonuses.

Though personal terms have been agreed, Portuguese outlet Record claims negotiations have stalled over the structure of the add-ons. Sporting are insisting on guaranteed clauses, while Arsenal prefer variable, performance-based terms.

The deal, which has already seen its fair share of drama including strikes and blackmail allegations, is reportedly at risk of collapse. If it does break down, Gyökeres is expected to publicly voice his frustrations.

Luis Diaz Not for Sale, Say Liverpool

Liverpool have rebuffed a £59 million bid from Bayern Munich for winger Luis Diaz. The offer was swiftly rejected, reflecting the club’s firm stance. Earlier this summer, Liverpool also dismissed an approach from Barcelona for the 28-year-old Colombian international.

While the Saudi Pro League has shown long-standing interest in Diaz, Liverpool appear determined to retain him. Notably, Diaz recently commented on his uncertain future, stating:

“We are currently in contact with Liverpool, because we are talking to clubs, and that’s normal given the transfer market that’s opening.”

Manchester United Eye Hugo Ekitike and More

Manchester United have reportedly initiated contact with Hugo Ekitike, aiming to leapfrog Newcastle in the race for the Eintracht Frankfurt striker. According to CaughtOffside, United are contemplating a player-plus-cash offer to push negotiations forward.

In parallel, Defensa Central reports that Newcastle are now preparing a £60.8 million bid for Real Madrid prodigy Endrick. Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins is also on their radar, although his £90 million valuation could prove to be a sticking point.

Arsenal Confident of Retaining Ethan Nwaneri

Amid recent uncertainty, Arsenal are said to be “increasingly confident” of securing a long-term contract for teenage sensation Ethan Nwaneri.

The winger, whose contract expires next summer, was the subject of interest from Chelsea. Negotiations have been described as “delicate,” with his representatives seeking guarantees. However, the situation appears to be improving.

The Daily Mail reports that Arsenal are ready to offer a five-year deal—or a four-year contract with the option of a further year. While no agreement has yet been finalised, sporting director Andrea Berta is reportedly “positive” and both sides are keen to find common ground.

Nwaneri has been with the Gunners since the age of eight and made his Under-18 debut at 14, breaking into the senior team only a year later.

Chelsea Reject PSG’s World-Record Bid for Cole Palmer

Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly prepared to break the world transfer record for Chelsea’s Cole Palmer with a mammoth £217 million offer. However, Chelsea have made it clear they have no interest in entertaining any bids for the midfielder, according to Fichajes.

Eze-Trossard Swap Deal Floated Between Arsenal and Palace

Crystal Palace are open to the idea of a swap deal involving Arsenal’s Leandro Trossard and their own midfield star Eberechi Eze, FootballTransfers reports. Palace are believed to favour Trossard as a potential makeweight in negotiations.

Tottenham Accused Over Gibbs-White Transfer Interference

Tottenham Hotspur have been reported to the Premier League by Nottingham Forest over their pursuit of Morgan Gibbs-White.

According to Football Insider, Forest claim the approach disrupted a pending swap deal with Manchester City, who had intended to acquire Gibbs-White and send James McAtee in the opposite direction. Spurs’ successful pitch to the player has now seemingly ended City’s hopes.

Sancho Valuation Lowered as Man Utd Seek Juventus Deal

Manchester United are prepared to lower their asking price for Jadon Sancho after failing to attract a buyer willing to meet their £21.7 million valuation. Football Italia reports that the Red Devils are in talks with Juventus over a potential deal.

Meanwhile, Football Insider adds that United are now ahead of Everton in the race for Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz. They are reportedly open to a loan with an option to buy.

Leeds Join Race for Gonzalo García

Leeds United have expressed interest in Real Madrid striker Gonzalo García, seeking a loan deal according to TBR Football. Brentford, Sunderland and West Ham United are also tracking the Club World Cup standout.

Mac Allister Rejects Bayern, Holds Out for Real Madrid

Alexis Mac Allister has rejected an approach from Bayern Munich, reports Defensa Central. The midfielder has made it clear that he will only consider leaving Liverpool if Real Madrid come calling.

Real Madrid Uninterested in Bernardo Silva, Even for Free

Despite multiple offers from agent Jorge Mendes, Real Madrid have no interest in signing Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva—even if he is available on a free transfer, according to Fichajes.