Alexander Isak could have a special clause inserted in his contract if he makes a move to Liverpool, thanks to an ex-Reds star.
Since the conclusion of the 2024/25 season, speculation around Alexander Isak’s future has been one of the most discussed topics in football circles.
The Swedish striker—who netted an impressive 27 goals in 42 appearances last season—has attracted interest from several top clubs, including Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United, and Saudi side Al Hilal.
Despite the growing noise, Newcastle United have consistently made it clear that Isak is not on the market, insisting that only an extraordinary bid would prompt them to even consider negotiations.
Reports this week indicated that Liverpool remain keen on Isak, even after completing the signing of Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt.
Adding fuel to the fire, Newcastle announced on Thursday that Isak did not join the squad for their pre-season tour in Asia, citing injury. However, just hours later, new developments emerged—Isak has reportedly told the club he wants to explore a potential move elsewhere.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Alexander Isak is prioritizing a move to Liverpool.
Posting on social media, Romano stated:
“Once again: Alexander Isak wants Liverpool, it’s his priority as reported. No talks with Al Hilal, Chelsea or Manchester United.”
Should Isak complete a transfer to Anfield, his contract could reportedly include a unique clause—one inspired by a past incident involving former Liverpool winger Ryan Babel in 2011.
That situation unfolded after Liverpool’s FA Cup defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford. United secured a 1-0 win with an early penalty from Ryan Giggs, while Steven Gerrard was sent off for a reckless challenge on Michael Carrick. Referee Howard Webb took charge of the match.
Babel, clearly frustrated, took to social media and posted an edited photo of Webb wearing a Manchester United shirt, accompanied by the caption:
“And they call him one of the best referees? That’s a joke. SMH.”
The tweet went viral, drawing headlines worldwide—including CNN and Sky Sports—and led to Babel being fined £10,000 by the FA.
Recalling the moment on the SDS Podcast, Babel revealed that the fallout prompted clubs to begin including media conduct clauses in player contracts.
“In my opinion, [Webb] made some wrong decisions that cost us the game,” Babel said.
“On the Liverpool bus, I tweeted a few things. I thought it was banter. But two days later, Liverpool called me in. Legal was there. They said, ‘Ryan, the FA wants to fine you. They don’t know how to deal with it—this has never happened before.’”
Now, in light of that history, it’s believed Liverpool may consider including similar provisions in Isak’s contract to guard against any potential future social media controversies.
Babel continued:
“I had to go down to London and appear in front of the FA. I remember sitting there—there were four older gentlemen who told me, ‘Ryan Babel, this is unprecedented. We’ve never dealt with something like this before, but to set an example, we’re going to fine and suspend you.’ So I ended up with a £10,000 fine.”
He believes that incident had long-term consequences for football contracts.
“After that, I think clubs started adding social media clauses—things like, ‘If your actions put the club at risk, you’ll be fined.’ Basically, because of me, they changed the rules.”
