A new avenue has reportedly emerged for Alexander Isak to get his huge money move out of Newcastle after all. Liverpool’s pursuit remains at a standstill with their Premier League rivals refusing to drop their £150million valuation.

Isak’s desire to leave hasn’t been helped by his club’s failure to land top transfer targets and potential replacements. Hugo Ekitike, Benjamin Sesko, and Joao Pedro have all slipped through their grasp, leaving Isak in limbo just three days before their Premier League opener against Aston Villa. Ironically, however, it’s Saturday’s opponents that may have inadvertently helped the Swedish striker get his move.

Villa are currently targeting re-signing Marco Ascencio from PSG. The Spanish forward played 21 times on loan for Unai Emery’s team last season, scoring eight goals.

To fund that move, club chiefs are negotiating the sale of Jacob Ramsey to Newcastle in a deal that could be confirmed this week.

Given he’s come through the ranks at Villa Park, the sale of Ramsey would also help the club’s Financial Fair Play standing. While the 24-year-old is not a striker, he will boost Newcastle’s attacking ranks.

It’s an addition that could potentially free up Isak's release because Newcastle would have enough attacking firepower to cover the Swede departing. The 25-year-old has reportedly made it clear he doesn’t want to play for the North-East club again and is now likely to be able to push harder for his move.

Liverpool have until 7pm on September 1 to complete a deal. In what could now prove a high-octane clash, they travel to St James’ Park on Monday, August 25.

It remains a possibility that Isak could yet be in red to face his current club. The Reds have thus far indicated they aren’t prepared to increase their initial offer of £110m plus add-ons, but have since raised further funds with the sales of Darwin Nunez and Tyler Morton.