Liverpool Seal £98.5m Deal for Alexander Isak Amid Newcastle Turmoil
Liverpool have secured the signing of Newcastle striker Alexander Isak in a blockbuster transfer worth an initial £98.5 million, potentially rising to £120–135 million with add-ons. The Swedish forward has signed a five-year contract until June 2031, earning around £300,000 per week.
Why Liverpool Moved for Isak
- Attacking Power: Isak’s speed, flair, and clinical finishing provide Liverpool with a world-class No. 9, giving them a focal point in attack.
- Mentality & Experience: At 25, he arrives with top-level pedigree and composure, qualities that strengthen the squad’s mentality both on and off the pitch.
- Perfect Tactical Fit: Slot views Isak as ideal for his high-intensity, fluid system, offering the versatility to stretch defences and link play in the final third.
The signing underscores Liverpool’s intent to challenge again for the Premier League crown and mount a serious Champions League campaign.
Carragher: Newcastle Should Have Sold Earlier
The move comes after weeks of uncertainty surrounding Isak’s future at Newcastle. The striker had been training away from the first team, with reports of growing frustration inside the club.
Sky Sports pundit and former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher argued that Newcastle should have cashed in earlier, likening the saga to Fernando Torres’ departure from Anfield in 2011.
“When you’ve got a player who doesn’t want to be there, it becomes a nightmare for the manager and the dressing room,” Carragher said. “We went through it with Torres. Those months before he left were difficult for everyone. Newcastle are in a similar situation now with Isak.”
Henry & Hasselbaink Back the Move
Arsenal legend Thierry Henry described Isak as “one of the best strikers in the Premier League,” praising his movement, technical ability, and finishing. He added: “When a player is this good and wants to leave, the cleanest solution is often to let him go.”
Former Chelsea striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink agreed that while Newcastle fans are understandably upset, both sides will benefit in the long run: “If he apologises and produces on the pitch, fans forgive quickly. But if the player is determined to move, it’s better for everyone to part ways.”
Howe’s Frustration
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe admitted the situation was “far from ideal” but had remained hopeful of keeping Isak. With the deal now complete, Newcastle are expected to accelerate their pursuit of a replacement, having been linked with PSG’s Hugo Ekitike.
Bottom Line: Liverpool’s capture of Isak is both a statement signing and the resolution of one of the summer’s most heated transfer sagas. For Newcastle, the loss of their star striker is a blow, but the windfall could reshape their squad. For Liverpool, the Swede represents the cutting edge needed to spearhead Arne Slot’s new era
