Alexander Isak could get dream welcome present at Liverpool thanks to Federico Chiesa

Liverpool could hand Alexander Isak the No. 14 shirt if they complete a deal to sign the Sweden international from Newcastle and Federico Chiesa leaves Anfield. The Reds have been linked with Isak all summer after cruising to the Premier League title last season.

Isak enjoyed a prolific season for the Magpies last time out as he bagged 23 Premier League goals. The 25-year-old still has three years remaining on his contract at St James' Park but has reportedly told his current employers that he wants to leave the club. Isak has been omitted from the Newcastle squad for their pre-season tour to Asia, with the Magpies putting his absence down to a "thigh injury."

Isak has worn the No. 14 shirt for Newcastle since joining the club from Real Sociedad in 2022.

The striker has racked up 62 goals and 11 assists in 109 games for the Magpies and helped his side win the Carabao Cup last season and secure a place in next season's Champions League courtesy of a fifth-place top-flight finish.

But his days at St James' Park appear to be numbered and Newcastle could be tempted to cash in on the star for £150million.

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Chiesa currently wears the No. 14 shirt at Liverpool after joining the Reds from Juventus last summer.

The shirt was previously worn by Jordan Henderson between 2011 and 2023, with the likes of Xabi Alonso, Ian Rush and Steve McManaman also sporting the number in the past.

Chiesa's first season at Anfield was a miserable one, with the Italy international only featuring in 14 games in all competitions. And Liverpool are now expecting Atalanta to submit a bid for the ace after leaving him out of their squad for their pre-season tour to Asia.

If Chiesa does depart the club, Isak would likely be happy to claim the No. 14 shirt after excelling with the same number at Newcastle. And the jersey could offer him a dream welcome at Anfield.

Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea already look to be out of the running to sign Isak, with the path appearing to be clear for Liverpool to make their move if they can find the funds.

And former Newcastle striker Alan Shearer gave his verdict on Isak's potential departure from the Magpies on Thursday as he told Betfair: "Eddie Howe has to use all his persuasive powers to do what he can and try to make him stay at least one more year. If that can't happen then it is what it is.

"You have to get the very best deal for the football club and if someone is prepared to pay north of £150m, and if he really, really wants to go, you can't step in the player's way."