Alexander Isak has openly questioned his future at Newcastle United, accusing the club of breaking promises and declaring that “the relationship can’t continue” after weeks of speculation linking him with a move to Liverpool.
The 25-year-old striker, who has been training separately from his team-mates, took to Instagram on Tuesday to issue a pointed statement:
“I’ve kept quiet for a long time while others have spoken. That silence has allowed people to push their own version of events, even though they know it doesn’t reflect what was really said and agreed behind closed doors. The reality is that promises were made and the club has known my position for a long time. To now act as if these issues are only emerging is misleading. 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.”
Newcastle swiftly denied Isak’s claims, releasing their own statement later in the evening:
“We want to keep our best players, but we also understand players have their own wishes and we listen to their views. As explained to Alex and his representatives, we must always take into consideration the best interests of Newcastle United, the team and our supporters in all decisions and we have been clear that the conditions of a sale this summer have not transpired. We do not foresee those conditions being met. This is a proud football club with proud traditions and we strive to retain our family feel. Alex remains part of our family and will be welcomed back when he is ready to rejoin his teammates.”
Reports in July suggested Isak had already informed the club of his desire to explore a transfer this window.
Earlier this month, Liverpool saw a £110m plus add-ons bid rejected, well short of Newcastle’s £150m valuation. With less than two weeks left before the window closes, the Magpies have yet to secure a replacement.
Their pursuit of Hugo Ekitike and Benjamin Sesko has stalled, while a £25m move for Yoane Wissa remains unresolved as Brentford search for their own reinforcement.
Beyond Isak, Newcastle’s only senior striking option is 22-year-old William Osula, who did not start a Premier League game last season.
Isak further explained his decision to go public during the PFA awards ceremony, which he skipped despite being nominated for Player of the Year:
“I’m proud to be recognised by my fellow professionals with a place in the PFA Premier League Team of the Season for 2024/25. First and foremost I want to thank my teammates and everyone at Newcastle United who has supported me along the way. I’m not at the ceremony tonight. With everything going on, it didn’t feel right to be there.”
The standoff now leaves Newcastle under pressure, with their star forward unsettled and the market offering limited solutions before the deadline.
