Isak follows in Lookman’s footsteps, takes extreme measure to secure preferred transfer move

Liverpool’s pursuit of Alexander Isak has taken a dramatic turn, with the Newcastle striker reportedly refusing to train as he pushes for a move.

The Swedish international’s actions mirror those of Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman, who is locked in his own transfer standoff with Atalanta over a switch to Inter Milan.

According to Daily Mail journalist Craig Hope, 25-year-old Alexander Isak has decided to go on strike in an attempt to force through his dream transfer to Liverpool.

The striker informed Newcastle “weeks ago” of his desire to leave, but the Magpies have so far been unwilling to entertain the idea.

Liverpool made a single offer worth £110 million for the Swede, which was “immediately rejected” by Newcastle. The Premier League side remain firm, leaving Isak to escalate his approach in frustration.

With Liverpool expected to return with a second bid, all eyes are on Newcastle’s response. The club could either open negotiations or stick to their hardline stance.

For now, all options are on the table. And Isak’s decision to stop training puts Newcastle in a difficult position, as they now have to weigh keeping a disgruntled player against cashing in for a record fee.

Ademola Lookman’s situation in Italy shares striking similarities with Isak’s case. The Nigerian winger formally submitted a transfer request to Atalanta in order to join Inter Milan, before refusing to attend training.

According to Fabrizio Romano, this move followed two rejected bids from the Nerazzurri, an opening €40 million offer and an improved €45 million package. Atalanta have made their stance clear, refusing to sell unless Inter meet their €50 million asking price.

The tension escalated when Atalanta CEO Luca Percassi admitted, “We control his destiny, not Inter Milan,” while revealing there was a verbal promise to allow Lookman to leave for a top club. However, he insisted that Italian clubs were excluded from that agreement.

Lookman, angered by what he described in his social media statement as “failed promises and poor treatment,” has dug in, forcing Atalanta to deal with both a transfer request and an absent player.