Alexander Isak set for immediate Liverpool blow if £130m Newcastle transfer is completed

Liverpool are running out of time to secure the signing of Alexander Isak, with just days of the summer transfer window left to run. Isak has been linked with a switch to Liverpool all summer, but so far the Reds have had no luck trying to prise him out of Newcastle United.

The Premier League champions have already seen one bid turned down by Newcastle, who have made it clear they will only sell on their own terms. Their stance is believed to have softened somewhat in recent days, with Newcastle having secured the signing of striker Nick Woltemade, but there remains work to do if Isak is to sign for Liverpool before Monday's deadline.

It remains a big if at this stage, with contrasting reports about a rumoured £130million approach from the 20-time champions. That being said, even if Isak is ushered in before Monday, the Swede will suffer an immediate blow given his preferred No.14 shirt is already taken by Federico Chiesa.

It's a number that holds plenty of value for Isak, who has opened up about his decision to wear the No.14 shirt in the past. He told the BBC: "He was definitely one player I liked a bit extra. Many great players have had the number 14.

"You have Ginola from Newcastle as well. When I signed for Newcastle, all of the numbers that were available, I think 14 was the most iconic one... I'm very happy with 14, but on the other hand I know the No.9 shirt is special for the fans."

Liverpool boss Arne Slot did hint a deal for Isak could be close on Friday, saying: "Newcastle have signed a new No.9 which is very nice for Eddie [Howe]. Newcastle, if it's true, and I have no reason to not believe what you are saying, are about to sign a new No. 9.

"That's very nice for Eddie as Anthony Gordon is suspended and Alexander Isak has not been training with the team, so it's nice to have a new No 9. I think I said after Monday, I could make a sub to impact the game. As always we try to sign players to help us but there are no reasons to think after two games we need more. We will always try to strengthen if it's the right player at the right price."