Liverpool risk Alexander Isak disappointment as two rivals set for role in £150m saga

Two Premier League rivals could be set to play a major role in Liverpool's pursuit of Alexander Isak. The Reds are keen to acquire the services of the forward before the summer transfer window closes, with his £150million valuation not deterring Arne Slot's side.

Liverpool have splashed the cash on a host of new signings over the past few months, with Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz adding a spark in the final third and Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez joining the club to provide alternative options in fullback.

The priority at Anfield is now signing another No. 9, with Isak their top target. However, despite the ex-Real Sociedad's best efforts to force through a move, Newcastle are not looking to part ways with their No. 14 and are standing firm on their hefty price tag for the time being.

Having allowed Callum Wilson to leave as a free agent at the end of last season, the Magpies are already in the market for a striker - and bringing in a replacement for Isak could see them soften their stance on the departure of Isak.

Liverpool are therefore waiting for new signings to arrive at St James' Park - though their patience could be tested given that Newcastle are on the cusp of two transfer blows of their own.

Brentford's Yoane Wissa has been identified as the ideal replacement for Wissa by the Magpies, but they have been unable to strike a deal to sign the Congolese international so far. talkSPORT report that the Bees are continuing to block the exit of the forward and won't facilitate his exit for anything less than £60m - which is £20m more than Newcastle are willing to spend on the 28-year-old.

Talks are ongoing between the clubs, but those at Brentford are said to be confident that Wissa will still be a part of Keith Andrews' squad when the transfer window closes. Chelsea star Nicolas Jackson is also admired on Tyneside and reports have suggested that the striker is also keen to take the next step in his career and join Newcastle.

However, Eddie Howe's side aren't alone in their admiration of the Senegal international. Sky Sports Germany report that Aston Villa have now entered the race to sign Jackson and already held talks with Chelsea over a potential deal.

If neither star arrives at St James' Park then it would spark a major rethink among the higher powers at the club, especially as they have missed out on a host of targets already this summer as well. With that in mind, Newcastle may ultimately decide that their best bet is attempting to reintegrate Isak into their squad, much to his and Liverpool's frustrations.