Qudus Salihu
Reports are emerging that Newcastle United have been “informed” of Alexander Isak’s increasingly difficult situation at Liverpool, sparking sensational rumors that a blockbuster return to St James’ Park could be on the radar for the January transfer window.
The Swedish international, who joined the Reds in a record-breaking £125 million move last summer, has endured what many are calling a “horror start” to his career at Anfield. Since the move, Isak has struggled significantly with fitness and form, managing just two goals in 15 appearances. Pundits and former players, including Stephen Warnock and Dietmar Hamann, have publicly questioned his readiness, suggesting he may not find his true level until next season due to a lack of a proper pre-season.
The situation has been further complicated by the explosive form of fellow summer signing Hugo Ekitiké, who has already netted ten times, effectively pushing Isak down the pecking order in Arne Slot’s side. With Liverpool legend Thierry Henry recently noting that Isak looks “not at the races,” the “honest admission” coming out of Anfield is that the British-record signing is currently a “luxury” the team is struggling to integrate.
Sources suggest that Newcastle, who have struggled with their own attacking fluidity and a “sideways” style of play since Isak’s acrimonious departure, are monitoring the situation closely. While an outright permanent return so soon after a £125m sale is complex, a sensational loan deal or a structured return has been mentioned as a way for Isak to rediscover the “different level” form that saw him score 25 goals for the Magpies last season.
For the Newcastle faithful, the news of Isak’s struggles has reignited a desire to see their former hero back in a black-and-white shirt. While Liverpool have not officially put the striker on the market, the growing sense of unease at Anfield has placed a potential “homecoming” firmly on the radar as the January window approaches.
Qudus Salihu
Rabiu Aminu
Mustapha Sheidu
Nafisa