The Athletic FC Podcast discuss whether Alexander Isak should leave Newcastle and if clubs will be able to afford him this summer

Newcastle striker Alexander Isak is a target for Liverpool and Arsenal, but the Magpies are refusing to quote a price, insisting he's not for sale.

Isak is a world-class operator, and he has the personality to boot. Indeed, according to Chris Waugh, speaking on The Athletic FC Podcast, Isak has a great personality behind the scenes at Newcastle, blending a laid-back persona well with a massively driven need for perfection.

It’s been a difficult few days for the Toon, with a foot injury ruling Lewis Hall out for the remainder of the season and Anthony Gordon set to miss the side’s Carabao Cup final against Liverpool through suspension. Howe will also be without Sven Botman for the foreseeable future as the Dutch central defender requires surgery on his knee.

The duo's form has attracted attention from elsewhere. Liverpool almost signed Gordon last summer, although the winger has since penned a new deal at St James' Park. Isak, meanwhile is probably the hottest striker in the world right now with Barcelona, Arsenal, paris St Germain and Liverpool all coveting him.

Liverpool has learnt just how much it would cost for Newcastle United to even engage in transfer talks over Alexander Isak. The Magpies forked out just over $80 million (£63M) for Isak from Real Sociedad back in 2022,

Liverpool are on the hunt for a new striker - but it may not be Alexander Isak after all. Liverpool want to sign a new striker. Anfield Watch understands that the Reds plan a major overhaul of their attack in 2025,