The ongoing saga between Alexander Isak and Newcastle United took a dramatic turn this week after the Swedish striker publicly declared his desire to leave the club, prompting an official response from the Magpies. Isak, who has been heavily linked with a move to Liverpool, voiced his frustrations in a statement released on Instagram, claiming that Newcastle had broken promises and that his relationship with the club had deteriorated beyond repair.
Isak's statement came on the same day he was named in the PFA Premier League Team of the Season for 2024/25. He stated, "When promises are broken and trust is lost, the relationship can't continue. That's where things are for me right now – and why change is in the best interests of everyone, not just myself". He also thanked his teammates and Newcastle United supporters while expressing his disappointment at not attending the PFA Awards ceremony due to the ongoing situation. Isak has been training away from the first-team squad and was absent from Newcastle's Premier League opener against Aston Villa.
Newcastle United swiftly responded to Isak's social media post with a club statement, expressing their disappointment. The club asserted that Isak remains under contract and that no commitment had ever been made allowing him to leave this summer. "We want to keep our best players, but we also understand players have their own wishes and we listen to their views," the statement read. Newcastle insisted that they must always consider the club's best interests and that the conditions for a sale have not been met and are not expected to be met. The club also stated that Isak remains part of the Newcastle family and will be welcomed back when he is ready to rejoin his teammates.
Liverpool's interest in Isak is well-documented, with the Reds reportedly having a £110 million bid plus add-ons rejected earlier in the transfer window. Some reports suggest Liverpool are preparing an improved offer of £130 million. Isak has reportedly made it clear that he wants to join Liverpool, and personal terms are not expected to be an issue.
Newcastle's willingness to sell Isak may hinge on their ability to sign replacements. The club has been linked with several forwards, including Brentford's Yoane Wissa and Wolves' Jorgen Strand Larsen. However, securing these targets has proven difficult, with Brentford reportedly increasing their asking price for Wissa.
The situation is further complicated by Newcastle's need to comply with profit and sustainability regulations. Selling Isak would undoubtedly generate significant funds, but it would also leave a void in their attacking lineup.
With the transfer window closing on September 1st, the coming days will be crucial in determining Isak's future. Whether Newcastle can mend the broken trust or if Liverpool can meet their demands remains to be seen.
