Isak comment speaks volumes after Liverpool's £120m approach for Newcastle star

Newcastle are bracing for an official offer from Liverpool for Alexander Isak that, if accepted, will set a new British transfer record, surpassing their £116m deal for Florian Wirtz

Alexander Isak has admitted he likes the way Liverpool play ahead of what's shaping up to be a blockbuster tug-of-war between the Reds and Newcastle. The Swedish striker, 25, is Liverpool's dream attacking target and the club are prepared to smash the British transfer record to secure his signature.

On Tuesday, they floated a sensational £120million offer to Newcastle, who are adamant Isak isn't for sale at any price. To up the ante, Liverpool could hijack the Magpies' pursuit of Eintracht Frankfurt forward Hugo Ekitike if they refuse to engage on Isak, leaving Eddie Howe's side in a tough spot.

Isak's stance on the transfer saga isn't publicly known, but he's made no secret of his admiration for Liverpool in the past. Speaking ahead of Newcastle's 2-1 win over Arne Slot's team in the Carabao Cup in March, Isak, who scored the winner that day, said: "I really enjoy the games against Liverpool, because I think they're not too different to ourselves.

"They are a high-pressing team and a direct team, which can lead to many counter-opportunities. That's the game I like."

Isak's comments suggest he'd fit pretty seamlessly into Liverpool's team given their high-intensity, counter-attacking style. At Newcastle, he's thrived in a role that gives him space to drive at defenders - an environment in which he's netted an impressive 52 goals over the past two seasons.

It isn't just Liverpool's playing style that's caught Isak's eye either - it's their stadium too. "There are not many places like St James' Park. The atmosphere is very special... It's a special place. I think people have a hard time coming to the stadium," the forward said back in January.

Unprompted, Isak then added: "I'd say Anfield is probably up there as well. The atmosphere is really good - it's probably the toughest away game."

Liverpool are ready to pull out all the stops to sign the former Real Sociedad man, one of Europe's most sought-after strikers. However, they'll only submit an official bid if they sense Newcastle are open to negotiations.

While Isak hasn't pushed for a move, it remains to be seen whether his head has been turned by Liverpool's interest. Prising him out of St James' Park will likely require the Reds to break the British transfer record for the second time this summer - having already spent £116m on Florian Wirtz.

A deal for Isak may demand a substantially higher fee amid suggestions Newcastle won't entertain any offers below the £150m mark. The Magpies, for their part, are no stranger to fending off Liverpool's advances.

Just last summer, they stood firm when the Reds made a move for Anthony Gordon, refusing to part with the winger despite significant interest. Liverpool remain keen on Gordon and may reignite their pursuit if Luis Diaz leaves the club in the coming weeks. For now, though, their priority is Isak.