Newcastle quickly rejected the Reds’ offer worth £110million, holding firm on their £150m valuation of the Swede.

While some reports claim Liverpool won’t return to the table this summer unless that stance softens, Isak’s strong desire to depart could make the situation untenable.

The Anfield giants will look to recoup a big chunk of the £85m they splashed to sign Nunez from Benfica in 2022 when Al Hilal come calling.

His exit could act as the budget boost they need to gather the funds to fire an improved bid towards St. James’ Park.

Should Liverpool eventually find success in their pursuit, it would give Newcastle the warchest they need to blow United out of the water in their battle for Benjamin Sesko.

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The Magpies are already in a stronger financial position than their rivals, and the sale of Isak would offer plenty more room to satisfy RB Leipzig and Sesko.

The 22-year-old striker is taking his time to weigh up his desired destination, and Newcastle is an enticing option.

On Tyneside, there is Champions League football on offer, plus the opportunity to work with a manager in Eddie Howe who boasts a proven track record in developing young players.

If Nunez’s Liverpool exit supplies the funds needed to lure Isak to Merseyside, Sesko would also be handed the keys to become the new poster boy of Newcastle’s attack.

United will be confident that they can win the battle, regardless of Isak’s future and the number of incentives that Newcastle can offer.

They have already beaten the Magpies in the race for both of their summer signings, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo.

Both players were won over by whatever project United tabled during talks. Sesko could be no different.

It remains to be seen whether Nunez’s exit would prompt Liverpool to move for an alternative to Isak, should he be unattainable.

With that in mind, whichever club Sesko picks as his preference would be wise to swoop quickly in case Slot’s eyes wander towards the talented Slovenian.