Two Premier League rivals could be set to play a major role in Liverpool ’s pursuit of Alexander Isak. The Reds are keen to acquire the services of the forward before the summer transfer window closes, with his £150million valuation not deterring Arne Slot ’s side.

More speculation has been caused by Isak’s likely decision to snub the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) awards gala on Tuesday. BBC Sport claim that the 25-year-old forward, who is one of six nominees for the marquee Players’ Player of the Year gong, is not expected to attend the ceremony which will be held at the Manchester Opera House.

Tottenham could help a new club lure Alexander Isak away from Liverpool with an unexpected windfall as a new transfer target has emerged for Thomas Frank. Clubs in the Premier League are working hard behind the scenes to recruit new players ahead of next month's transfer deadline.

Follow live updates as the summer transfer window continues after the opening weekend of the Premier League season

Whether Richard Keys’ claim of a £140 million second bid proves accurate or not, one truth is unavoidable: this transfer saga will define the closing weeks of the window. Liverpool’s pursuit of Isak has placed pressure on Newcastle’s hierarchy and set the stage for one of the summer’s defining moves.