Liverpool are looking to seal a blockbuster deal for Alexander Isak this summer, but as things stand, they won't be able to offer the Swede his two preferred squad numbers

Isak's wish to quit St James' Park can be traced back to last summer, with three factors now cited as reasons behind the Liverpool target's unhappiness

Just because Liverpool could most likely afford Alexander Isak this summer, doesn’t mean they will sign the Newcastle star. After all, they have just recruited an exciting, young centre-forward who shares similar characteristics with the Swede, and a fee of £120–150 million could still dissuade them from pursuing a deal.

SPORT.com has all the latest news, updates, views and reaction from around the footballing world. Alexander Isak has shocked Newcastle United by informing the club he wants to explore a move

Al-Hilal have reportedly offered Alexander Isak a £600,000-a-week tax-free deal. The forward has been at the centre of transfer speculation over the summer window, and it was reported earlier in the week that he has asked to explore a move away from Newcastle United.

If any club has the funds to pull off this deal, it is Al Hilal. Not only are they one of the four clubs owned by Saudi Arabia’s Private Investment Fund (PIF), but they also benefit from the support of billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, who can help underwrite exceptional deals such as this one.

There’s reason for hope, though. “Newcastle are targeting RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Sesko, who has been linked with several European clubs this summer,” suggests the club has its eyes on top-tier talent. Sesko is dynamic, raw, and full of upside. If paired with a player like Larsen, the duo could even rival Isak’s individual impact.

Thanks to TV deals, prize money and market-savvy, Anfield club need not be hampered by PSR if they want to break bank for Newcastle striker

PIF's plans to keep the unhappy striker out of Liverpool's clutches look set to backfire, giving the Reds more optimism a deal CAN be done and with Newcastle's asking price emerging