Newcastle United’s determination to keep Alexander Isak at St James’ Park has taken on fresh urgency. According to Martin Hardy of The Times, the Magpies are prepared to offer the Swedish forward a significant pay rise that would make him one of the club’s top earners.

Despite reports that Liverpool are not actively pursuing a new central striker, Hardy noted that the club “have the funds to test Newcastle’s resolve,” even after spending £200 million this summer, including a British-record deal for Florian Wirtz.