Liverpool’s pursuit of Alexander Isak has developed into one of the most dramatic storylines of this summer transfer window. The Sweden international stunned Newcastle United earlier this week with a strongly worded statement in which he claimed that “promises” had been broken and the relationship “can’t continue”. His words sent shockwaves across Tyneside and beyond, prompting a swift and stern response from the Magpies hierarchy.

Despite Isak’s willingness to force a move, Newcastle remain publicly adamant that he will not leave unless their conditions are met. They insist that such conditions, notably significant reinforcements in attack and a huge transfer fee, are unlikely to materialise before the 1 September deadline.

Sky Sports News’ Keith Downie provided clarity when he outlined the limited circumstances under which Liverpool could sign Isak this summer. He explained: “Yoane Wissa was seen as the Callum Wilson replacement, not the Alexander Isak replacement. If they were able to land Wissa in the next few days – and I am expecting a bid in the next couple of days – and Liverpool came to the table offering £130m, then Newcastle might have a decision to make.

“If they are unable to bring in Wissa, then Isak will not be going anywhere; and that was what the statement was saying last night.

“If they were to find a gem with two weeks of the window to go, and bring in Wissa, and Liverpool came to the table with a significantly higher bid, then I think Isak will be allowed to go.”

Downie added further detail: “I think the only way that Isak could go between now and the end of the transfer window is if they either manage to get two strikers in, which is going to prove really, really difficult, and Liverpool up their offer significantly; or they manage to bring in Wissa and Liverpool up their offer significantly, [and] I think there’s a small chance of that happening.”

Reports suggest Liverpool are prepared to return with an improved bid, potentially pushing towards £120m. However, Newcastle have held firm at an asking price of £150m, a figure described as non-negotiable unless Brentford’s Yoane Wissa is prised away. That dependency places the Wissa deal at the centre of this saga.

Ben Jacobs has reported that Liverpool would consider testing Newcastle again if there is “encouragement” from the Magpies’ board. Yet encouragement remains thin on the ground. With Isak effectively agitating for a move, Newcastle’s determination to hold their ground adds a layer of intrigue and brinkmanship.

For Liverpool, hope is thin but alive. Director of Football Richard Hughes and manager Arne Slot remain interested in adding one more high-profile striker following a summer of targeted recruitment. Supporters see Isak as a perfect fit, a forward capable of leading the line and providing another dimension to an already potent attack.

While the chances remain slim, Liverpool fans will hold on to Downie’s suggestion of a “small chance” until the window slams shut. Stranger things have happened in football, and for as long as the clock ticks, optimism will linger on Merseyside.

Liverpool supporters will recognise the difficulty in this potential transfer but will equally sense that this is the sort of deal that can define a club’s ambition. Alexander Isak is a striker of rare quality, one who offers both goals and tactical flexibility. For Arne Slot, adding him to a forward line already boasting Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo would be a statement of intent.

Fans are divided between admiration for Newcastle’s resolve and frustration at Liverpool’s reluctance to stretch further financially. After winning the Premier League last season, Slot’s side will be expected to go deep again in domestic and European competitions. Strength in depth across the front line is vital, particularly following the tragic loss of Diogo Jota.

The reality is that £150m may be excessive even for a player of Isak’s calibre, and some supporters argue that the club’s transfer resources might be better spread across multiple positions. However, others see the window narrowing to secure a striker at his peak, one who could elevate Liverpool’s chances of defending their crown.

If Newcastle do land Wissa and show even the slightest willingness to negotiate, Liverpool should be ready. Fans know this opportunity might not come again, and with Isak pushing for the move, the club’s hierarchy must decide whether to match their supporters’ ambition.