Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports

Alexander Isak Transfer Twist as Al-Hilal Plan Massive and Bold Swap Deal

The Saudi Club Eye Record Move for Alexander Isak, but Newcastle’s Stance Remains Firm.

Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports

The transfer saga surrounding Alexander Isak has taken a stunning twist. Reportedly the Newcastle United striker has given the green light for initial talks with Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal. According to several reports in the media, the Saudi club and Isak’s representatives have begun discussions.

Al-Hilal, managed by Simone Inzaghi, are reportedly preparing to go all out to land the Swedish forward. The club has identified Isak as their priority target after exploring deals for Victor Osimhen and Darwin Nunez earlier this summer.

Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal are considering a move for Newcastle striker Alexander Isak reports @DiMarzio🤯🇸🇪

Newcastle, Liverpool or Riyadh… Isak will be playing in _____ next season 👀 pic.twitter.com/KR4n7CZeKn
— OneFootball (@OneFootball) July 18, 2025

Sources suggest that they are willing to present an eye-watering bid that could exceed £150 million. This would test Newcastle’s resolve despite their public stance of keeping the player. The Saudi outfit are even willing to go for a potential player-swap element.

Ruben Neves, who joined Al-Hilal from Wolves last year, could be included in the deal to sweeten negotiations. Neves remains highly rated in the Premier League. Hence, he certainly may appeal to Eddie Howe as Newcastle look to reinforce their midfield.

Also Read: Isak vs Ekitike: Analysing Liverpool’s Striker Dilemma in the Summer Window

Alexander Isak Faces Decision Dilemma

Adding to the intrigue is the ownership connection between Newcastle and Al-Hilal. Both clubs are backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), which controls 85% of Newcastle and 75% of Al-Hilal. This overlap has also raised questions about how negotiations might unfold given PIF’s interests on both sides.

Isak, 25, has been in scintillating form since joining Newcastle from Real Sociedad in 2022. He has scored 62 goals in 109 appearances. Last season, he netted 23 Premier League goals. He finished just behind Mohamed Salah in the scoring charts. Liverpool have also been strongly linked with a move for Isak earlier this summer.

Also Read: Luka Modric Picks No. 14 at AC Milan in Tribute to Carlo Ancelotti

However, their interest appears to have cooled as they turn attention to Hugo Ekitike. Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain have reportedly stepped aside, leaving Al-Hilal with a clear run at the Swedish star. Notably, Isak previously made comments that he is happy at Newcastle.

Even so, the lure of a record-breaking salary and a new challenge in the Middle East may now be too tempting to ignore. For the club, the transfer amount and Ruben Neves could be more than tempting. The coming few days will be interesting for the transfer saga.

Al Hilal

Alexander Isak

Newcastle United

Ruben Neves

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.