Liverpool could agree Alexander Isak deal with five players they could send to Newcastle

After weeks of intense speculation, Liverpool have finally moved for Newcastle striker Alexander Isak. The Reds' huge £120million bid, plus add-ons, was rejected by their rivals, but no one expects the saga will end there.

Newcastle are said to be holding out for a fee in the region of £150m. Eddie Howe is also reluctant to let his key man go without having secured a replacement, with the club's pursuit of Benjamin Sesko now in danger of being scuppered by Manchester United. However, Liverpool could yet entice Newcastle into a sale without spending the money their rivals are demanding.

Express Sport looks at five Anfield outcasts who could be used to offset the costs...

Darwin Nunez

The submitted bid is the clearest indication yet that it's all over for Darwin Nunez on Merseyside. While his goal record is incomparable to Isak's, the perception remains that the Uruguayan has the ability to fire if he can add consistency to his undeniable threat.

Arne Slot, and FSG, will be well aware of Newcastle's desperate desire to sign a new striker. Offering them Nunez could not only satisfy that craving, but also knock around £40m off the Isak fee

Harvey Elliott

Perhaps the most exciting carrot to dangle. While not exactly a ready-made replacement for Isak, Harvey Elliott's potential remains huge with many Liverpool fans lamenting the prospect of him being let go this summer.

His form during England's Under-21s Euros win was a stark reminder of the forward's ability. Not only would he save FSG at least £40m in their Isak pursuit, but his arrival on Tyneside would help appease Howe and the Toon Army over their hammer blow.

Kostas Tsimikas

At 29, Tsimikas is still a player capable of performing in the Premier League and Europe. The left-back wouldn't exactly bolster Newcastle's forward ranks, but would provide another defensive option while helping his former clubs save around £10m in any Isak deal.

Tyler Morton

After two loan spells elsewhere, midfielder Tyler Morton has failed to break into the first-team ranks at Liverpool. Interest from Ligue 1 side Lyon underlines his ability, though, and he's another player Liverpool can argue offers long-term value while shaving at least £15m of the huge £150m being demanded.

Federico Chiesa

The assumption remains that after his underwhelming first season at Anfield, Federico Chiesa won't be afforded a second one. The 27-year-old managed just six Premier League appearances and scored just twice in all competitions, although his campaign was plagued by a string of injuries.

However, you don't win honours with Juventus and win 51 caps for Italy without being a proven performer at elite level. At just 27, Liverpool can argue the winger should take at least £15m off their potential British record fee.