Alexander Isak says his exit from Newcastle United is “in the best interests of everyone” as he broke his silence on the ongoing transfer saga linking him with Liverpool.
The Swedish striker, who finished as the second-highest goalscorer in the Premier League last season, has missed both pre-season and Newcastle’s opening match, a goalless draw against Aston Villa. Reports claim Liverpool had a £110 million bid rejected, with Newcastle demanding close to £150 million for the 25-year-old.
On Tuesday, Isak released a statement after skipping the Professional Footballers’ Association awards ceremony despite being named in the 2024/25 Premier League Team of the Year.
“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,” Isak posted on Instagram.
“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.”
Reports suggest Newcastle had promised Isak an improved contract but delayed negotiations due to financial sustainability rules. The Magpies later responded, insisting no such commitment had been made.
“We are disappointed to have been alerted to a social media post by Alexander Isak this evening,” the club wrote. “We are clear in response that Alex remains under contract and that no commitment has ever been made by a club official that Alex can leave Newcastle United this summer. We want to keep our best players, but we also understand players have their own wishes and we listen to their views.”
Isak, who joined Newcastle from Real Sociedad in 2022, has scored 62 goals in 109 appearances. He notably netted the decisive goal against Liverpool in the League Cup final earlier this year, ending Newcastle’s 70-year domestic trophy drought.
Liverpool, meanwhile, have already spent over £300 million revamping their squad but remain in search of a new forward following the exits of Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez, as well as the tragic passing of Diogo Jota. A deal for Isak is unlikely to be finalized before Newcastle host Liverpool in the Premier League on Monday at St James’ Park.
What you should know
Alexander Isak, Newcastle’s star striker and one of the league’s top scorers, is pushing for a move amid broken promises from the club. Liverpool are keen, but Newcastle’s high asking price could delay or block the deal.
