The Alexander Isak transfer saga is refusing to end any time soon with the Newcastle United striker making up his mind to join Liverpool this summer.
The Magpies have already rejected a bid from the Premier League champions this summer for their star striker.
Eddie Howe’s team are in a tricky situation at the moment since the attacker has expressed his desire to leave the club and the allure of playing for Liverpool proving too good to ignore.
This transfer window has been underwhelming for Howe and his recruitment team since they have lost out on the signings of targets like Joao Pedro and Benjamin Sesko, who have joined Chelsea and Manchester United respectively.
Alexander Isak decides not to play for Newcastle again
Now, the latest decision from Isak is going to make matters worse for the Newcastle United faithful.
According to The Athletic, the 25-year-old Sweden international has informed those close to him, and made it understood internally, that his time at St. James’ Park is over, regardless of whether a transfer materialises before the close of the current window.
Isak’s stance is unequivocal: even if no exit is agreed this summer, he does not wish to reintegrate into Newcastle’s squad.
This comes despite Newcastle’s official position that the forward is “not for sale.” Behind the scenes, however, the club are said to be quietly assessing the market, weighing their options should a suitable offer arrive.
The situation has escalated in the context of strong interest from Liverpool, who view Isak as a potential marquee signing to strengthen their attacking options.
Liverpool’s recruitment team are closely monitoring developments and could be ready to act if the opportunity presents itself.
Eddie Howe faces making a tough decision now
Alexander Isak of Newcastle United
Alexander Isak of Newcastle United
For Newcastle, losing Isak would be a significant blow. A player of his quality is difficult to find in the market. He scored 27 goals for the Magpies last season and helped them win the Carabao Cup by beating Liverpool in the final.
His departure would require an urgent and high-quality replacement which would not be easy to do with the transfer window shutting down in less than 20 days.
The standoff now leaves Newcastle with a difficult decision: stand firm and risk keeping an unsettled player, or negotiate his sale while they still have time to reinvest.
The latest decision from Isak will surely ring the alarm bells at St. James’ Park and the football world will be looking Newcastle’s next step with keen interest.
