Liverpool could be seen as the front-runners to sign Alexander Isak should the Newcastle United striker become available, as Arsenal have backed away.

According to a report by Graeme Bailey on TBR Football, Liverpool are still in the market for a new striker and view Alexander Isak as their top target despite the difficulties in signing the Swede. Arsenal have already backed out of the run, which could place the Merseysiders as the front-runners should the Magpies hitman become available in the window.

The talk around Alexander Isak immediately died down after Newcastle United finished in the Champions League places. There was always the belief that the Swede would not push for a move should the Magpies finish in the top five and achieve top-tier continental football for next season, which has been the case.

Liverpool and Arsenal were the teams heavily linked with a move for the Swedish striker, who scored 23 goals this season, despite the heavy price tag surrounding the forward. Newcastle United had already priced out Liverpool from the equation, with reports stating he could cost as much as £150 million, which also put Arsenal out of the race from a financial point of view.

The Gunners have visibly cooled down their chase of Alexander Isak, as the report reiterates the fact that the north Londoners have backed away. Arsenal are chasing Benjamin Sesko as their priority striker target in this window, while Viktor Gyokeres is also a key target. So, they might end up signing one of those two names.

As for Liverpool, they are still interested in the striker, who, the report states could at least cost £120 million. While there are massive questions over his availability, should Newcastle United open the doors to a sale, the Merseysiders are likely to be in pole position ahead of anyone including Arsenal for Isak.

The reality of the Alexander Isak situation

Liverpool are planning a British-record bid for Florian Wirtz and are likely to seal the signing. They could potentially make room for someone as expensive as the 25-year-old Newcastle United star should they manage a few sales, although the big problem in the Isak chase is his availability.

Newcastle United are prioritising a new contract for the Swede, and should he sign that, Isak will be unavailable for the foreseeable future. However, should the Swede continue on his current terms, the real race for his signature could commence next summer, when Arsenal will also be in the chase alongside Liverpool and possibly others.