Newcastle Nears Record £65m Nick Woltemade Signing Amid Liverpool Isak Bid

Newcastle United is close to completing a £65-74 million signing of Stuttgart striker Nick Woltemade, which could facilitate the departure of Alexander Isak to Liverpool. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has remained cryptic about Isak's future, acknowledging the complexities surrounding the player's strained relationship with the club and his refusal to train with the first team. Isak has been isolated from Newcastle's squad after refusing to join the pre-season tour, with the club valuing him at £150 million and having rejected a £110 million offer from Liverpool. Newcastle has prioritized securing two strikers before considering Isak's sale, and Woltemade's arrival is seen as a key step in this strategy. Liverpool manager Arne Slot has praised Newcastle's signing for helping Howe but stayed noncommittal regarding Liverpool's transfer plans, indicating that any additions would depend on the right player and price. The transfer window's closing days continue to fuel speculation about further moves, with Newcastle aiming to strengthen their squad and Liverpool potentially preparing another bid for Isak.