Football Transfer: Eddie Howe hints at sake sake to Liverpool

Alexander Isak’s transfer to Liverpool is now closer after Newcastle United signed German striker Nick Woltemade for a club record fee of about £69 million ($93 million).

The 23-year-old Woltemade, who has played twice for Germany, signed a long-term deal with Newcastle. His transfer fee is higher than the £63 million Newcastle paid for Isak from Real Sociedad three years ago.

Liverpool are very interested in Isak, 25, and are preparing a new offer after their first bid of £110 million was rejected.

Woltemade, Newcastle’s fifth signing of the summer, scored 17 goals in 33 matches last season. The 6ft 6in (1.98m) forward said he was excited about the move.

“From the first contact, I felt the club really wanted me and had big plans for me,” he said. “It’s a big step leaving Germany, but everyone has welcomed me, and I already feel at home. I spoke to the coach, and I’m sure this is the right place for me to play at my best.”

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe described Woltemade as the right fit. “He has great technical ability, is strong, and has shown he can score in one of Europe’s top leagues. He’s also still young and has room to grow,” Howe said.

Isak, who helped Newcastle qualify for the Champions League and win the League Cup last season, has been training alone after asking to join Liverpool.

Howe admitted for the first time on Friday that he may have to let Isak go, partly to help Newcastle’s financial position. Last year, the club had to sell players Elliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh to avoid a points deduction. Selling Isak for a large fee would help Newcastle stay within Profit and Sustainability Rules.