Liverpool may have to give up Marc Guehi transfer to secure Alexander Isak green light

It could be a case of one or the other for Arne Slot this summer. Despite already spending more than £200million on new signings in this window, the Dutchman is continuing to pursue big-money targets as his side prepares for their Premier League title defence.

The Reds have already sealed their record signing with Bayer Leverkusen forward Florian Wirtz, arriving in a deal potentially worth £116m. Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez, and Jeremie Frimpong have also come on board, and Slot's new look team face Crystal Palace this Sunday in the Community Shield. However, their biggest transfer statement may be yet to come.

Liverpool have been heavily linked with a move for Eagles defender Marc Guehi. However, since that speculation, they've had a £110m bid, plus add-ons, rejected for Newcastle striker Alexander Isak.

Their rivals are said to be holding out for a massive £150m fee, which would make Isak the third most expensive footballer in history. Fans of both clubs are now waiting to see if the Merseyside club will respond with an increased offer.

However, meeting Isak's valuation would almost certainly end Liverpool's pursuit of Guehi. Palace reportedly want a £50m fee for the 25-year-old, having dropped their valuation given that his contract expires in 12 months.

Despite the prospect of player sales, it is almost inconceivable that FSG will fund deals for both Guehi and Isak. Newcastle could yet capitalise on this, having also been linked with the England centre-back.

Ironically, selling Isak to Liverpool could be the key to funding that move. The Swedish striker reported back for pre-season training on Monday, having stayed at home for the pre-season tour of Asia.

In the meantime, the 25-year-old has been permitted to keep fit with former club Real Sociedad. The Reds have until 7pm on September 1 to get a deal done, when the transfer window expires.