Liverpool can sell three stars to raise Alexander Isak fee after Newcastle twist

Liverpool continue to be linked with Alexander Isak and may finally have the keys to unlock a Premier League record transfer. It is claimed that Newcastle are targeting Eintracht Frankfurt star Hugo Ekitike, hinting that the Magpies are planning for life after Isak.

A new centre-forward would complete Arne Slot's team and surely make them favourites to win the Premier League title again. However, any fee for Isak would need to surpass the £116million Liverpool paid for Florian Wirtz. The Reds may not have that money available but a couple of outgoing deals could raise sufficient funds. Express Sport looks at who could depart.

Ibrahima Konate

Real Madrid have been strongly linked with a move for Konate. Reports earlier in the summer claim that the defender has stalled on signing a new contract and could explore offers. The Frenchman has only one year remaining on his deal.

Despite Konate's contractual situation, Liverpool will still demand a big fee for the 26-year-old, likely in the £40m region. That would raise a significant portion of the fee needed to buy Isak, although it would mean that Liverpool must sign a centre-back replacement.

Harvey Elliott

Earlier this summer, Elliott hinted that he would consider offers from interested clubs. A lack of game time last season has prompted the attacking midfielder to consider his future. Clubs in the Premier League, La Liga and Bundesliga are said to be monitoring the 21-year-old's progress.

Elliott did his market value no harm at all with some excellent performances at the Under-21 European Championship last month. Ending the competition by winning the Player of the Tournament, Elliott justified Liverpool's determination to receive at least £50m in exchange for his signature.

Wirtz's arrival is likely to push Elliott further down the pecking order at Anfield, and a departure would free up funds.

Luis Diaz

Diaz has long been linked with Bayern Munich and Barcelona, although Liverpool are reportedly not keen to sell at this stage. That could soon change, though, especially if the Reds realise that a move for Isak is attainable.

Like Konate, Diaz has only one year remaining on his contract and it is unclear whether he would extend his terms to protect his value. Bayern are said to have made a £52m offer for the 28-year-old winger, which has been turned down.