Newcastle will only release Isak to Liverpool if they secure the signing of Benjamin Sesko

Magpies demand a replacement before releasing Swedish star striker

Newcastle United will only allow Alexander Isak to join Liverpool if they complete the signing of RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Šeško, according to English journalist Craig Hope.

The Swedish striker has been at the center of ongoing transfer speculation, with Liverpool reportedly leading the race for his signature. Despite a preliminary agreement between the Merseyside club and the player’s camp, Newcastle are reluctant to approve the move without securing a high-profile replacement.

Conditional transfer hinges on Šeško deal

Newcastle have made it clear to both Isak’s representatives and interested clubs that they will not negotiate unless they can confirm the arrival of Šeško from Leipzig. The Magpies see the 21-year-old Slovenian international as the only suitable replacement for Isak’s attacking prowess.

However, negotiations with RB Leipzig are proving difficult. The Bundesliga club is demanding around €80 million for Šeško, a fee Newcastle is currently attempting to lower.

Isak already preparing for Anfield switch

Sources close to the player suggest that Isak is training in Spain away from Newcastle’s preseason group, as he awaits the outcome of the negotiations. The 25-year-old is reportedly eager to join Liverpool and does not intend to return to Newcastle’s first team setup.

Isak has expressed a strong desire to make the move to Anfield, where he would compete for a starting spot under new manager Arne Slot. He is seen as a long-term replacement for Darwin Núñez, who has been inconsistent since joining the Reds.