Alexander Isak: Liverpool handed transfer boost as wantaway Newcastle star issues explosive statement
Swedish striker Alexander Isak has escalated his standoff with Newcastle United, releasing a damning public statement in which he accused the club of breaking promises — further fuelling speculation over a record-breaking move to Liverpool.
The 25-year-old, who has refused to train amid mounting transfer tensions, is determined to leave St James’ Park this summer. Liverpool have already tested Newcastle’s resolve with a £110 million bid plus add-ons, though the Magpies are holding firm at a £150m valuation.
Isak chose not to attend Tuesday night’s Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) awards gala in Manchester, where he was named in the Premier League Team of the Season after scoring 27 goals in 43 appearances last term. Instead, he took to Instagram to explain his absence — and to publicly air his frustrations.
*“I’m proud to be recognised by my fellow professionals with a place in the PFA Team of the Season. First and foremost, I want to thank my teammates and everyone at Newcastle United who has supported me along the way. But I’m not at the ceremony tonight. With everything going on, it didn’t feel right to be there.
I’ve kept quiet for a long time while others have spoken, pushing their own version of events. The reality is 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 stand for me right now — and why change is in the best interests of everyone, not just myself.”*
The statement marks the first time Isak has directly addressed the transfer saga, and his words leave little doubt over his desire to move on.
Newcastle responded with an official release later that evening, expressing disappointment at their striker’s public comments and denying he had ever been promised a summer exit.
*“Alex remains under contract and no commitment has been made by a club official that he can leave Newcastle United this summer. We want to keep our best players, but we also understand players have their own wishes. However, the conditions for a sale have not been met — nor do we foresee them being met.
This is a proud football club with proud traditions. Alex remains part of our family and will be welcomed back when he is ready to rejoin his teammates.”*
The standoff now sets the stage for a dramatic conclusion to the window, with Liverpool closely monitoring developments as they continue their search for a marquee striker.
