John Arne Riise reveals one concern over Liverpool’s transfer move for Alexander Isak

John Arne Riise says he would ‘love’ to see Alexander Isak join Liverpool this summer, but has some reservations about the club coughing up Newcastle’s ‘extremely high’ asking price for the striker.

Speculation over Isak’s future had appeared to have cooled over the course of the summer, but there was a major twist last month as the forward informed Newcastle of his desire to explore a move away from St James’ Park.

Liverpool were quickly alerted to a potential deal and saw an opening offer of £110million plus add-ons knocked back by the Magpies, who are refusing to be bullied into an agreement for their prized possession.

Isak was pictured training alone with former side Real Sociedad following the failed bid, with Newcastle boss Eddie Howe claiming the Swede had to ‘earn the right’ to join up with his squad again.

And while Isak returned to training with the Toon on Monday, the Premier League champions are expected to return with a follow-up proposal for the 25-year-old attacker in due course.

It’s understood Newcastle have identified RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko as their top target should Isak complete a switch to Anfield.

‘It’s been the talk of the summer. Some days you think, “Yeah, he’s going to sign,” and other days you think, “No chance”,’ ex-Liverpool star Riise told OLBG.com.

‘What’s exciting is his movement – he’s quick, he’s a great finisher, he’s hungry.

‘But you read so many stories from people who think they know everything, but they don’t have the answers.

‘Newcastle will be tough to convince. This one might come down to what Isak himself says to the club. But it’s all about money, isn’t it? Newcastle are in a strong position. They know clubs want him.

‘At the same time, do you want to keep an unhappy player at your club? If they decide not to sell because the price isn’t met, how will he perform next season for Newcastle? Because we all know he wants to leave.’

But with Newcastle reportedly demanding an eye-watering fee of £150m for Isak, Riise questions whether paying such a price would be ‘worth it’ for Liverpool.

‘I’d love to get him at Liverpool, but the price will be extremely high. If it’s worth it? I don’t know,’ the 2005 Champions League winner added.

‘It would be an amazing signing for Liverpool, but right now it looks difficult as they’ve already rejected so many offers. Time will tell!’

Despite doubts over Isak’s price, Riise is confident the Sweden international could prove to be Liverpool’s ‘missing link’ up front should he wind up on Merseyside.

‘I think he’d suit Liverpool’s style perfectly – because of his movement, his runs in behind and his finishing,’ Riise continued.

‘Look at Darwin Nunez, in the last couple of years, he’s had so many chances from making those runs.

‘If Nunez had a bit more luck – or composure – in front of goal, he’d have scored an unbelievable amount.

‘I think Alexander Isak is a step up. He’s calmer, more deadly in front of goal, and maybe smarter with his movement.

‘So I think Isak fits Liverpool better – especially with the way we play. I get why Liverpool are going all in for him.

‘He could be that missing link up front.’

Riise has been impressed by Florian Wirtz’s early showings in Liverpool colours, but believes the Premier League represents an altogether different challenge to what the German will have previously experienced in his career.

‘Look at what he’s done at Leverkusen – he’s unbelievable,’ the former Norway full-back went on.

‘But coming to the Premier League is a different step. The speed, sharpness, and quality here is another level — both in your team and your opposition. So it’s a different ballgame.

‘The money spent on him makes sense because every club wanted him. I think he fits perfectly in terms of vision, technique, and style.

‘Even in pre-season, you could see how he’s trying to find Mo Salah between the lines with his passing.

‘That’s why I think Isak would also be perfect – the connection between them would be special.’

Riise is ‘so excited’ for the upcoming season and ‘can’t see anyone else’ threatening Liverpool’s defence of the Premier League title.

He added: ‘I’m so excited for this season. Honestly, I don’t think I’ve been this excited about a Liverpool season before.

‘Last year there were no big signings – but this year, even without winning the Premier League, the signings are unbelievable.

‘Expectations are high – from the ex-players, the fans, and the whole football world.

‘I can’t see anybody else winning the Premier League other than Liverpool this season. When you look at what they did last season and the signings they’ve made this summer, I can’t see how Liverpool won’t be up there at the end of the season.’