Alexander Isak’s relationship with Newcastle United has taken a shocking turn. The Swedish striker has told the club he will never play for them again, accusing the Magpies of breaking a major promise.
Last season, Isak was one of the top strikers in Europe, delivering goals and strong performances for Newcastle. Behind the scenes, though, there was trouble brewing. A contract promise made to him was never kept, and it left him feeling betrayed.
It all started when Amanda Staveley, then a director and minority co-owner at Newcastle, promised Isak that the club would sit down with him to negotiate a new and improved deal. The meeting was meant to be a reward for his excellent form. But before any talks could happen, Staveley left the club.
When Paul Mitchell replaced her as sporting director, he quickly decided not to go through with the promise. He said it was because the club needed to follow Premier League financial rules (PSR). However, just weeks later, Anthony Gordon signed a new long-term contract.
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That decision hit Isak hard. He was still under contract until 2028, but he felt the club did not value him enough to honor their word. According to sources, it was then that he made up his mind: last season would be his final one at Newcastle.
The forward later told manager Eddie Howe about his decision, first two weeks before the season ended, and again during a call after Newcastle’s defeat to Everton on the final day. Howe wanted to reintegrate him into the team for this season, but Isak refused.
Now, Isak is training away from the rest of the squad. Howe admitted he cannot select the striker for Newcastle’s Premier League opener against Aston Villa this weekend.
“For me, I’m just trying to manage the situation and manage the team,” Howe said. “We’re focusing on Aston Villa. Everything else, from my perspective, is not in my control.”
When asked if he thought he could convince Isak to change his mind, Howe replied: “If it was that easy, I’d have done it yesterday.”
Liverpool have been following the drama closely. The Reds already had a bid for Isak rejected earlier in the summer, with Newcastle insisting he is not for sale. But Isak’s refusal to play could change the situation.
Liverpool’s summer transfer business has been huge, nearly £300 million spent, bringing in stars like Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Hugo Ekitike. They have also let go of key players, including Darwin Núñez, Luis Díaz, and Jarell Quansah.
Club captain Virgil van Dijk believes Liverpool’s recruitment team knows exactly what to do. Speaking after the Community Shield, he said: “I fully trust the club to do the right thing. The new signings have done well. I don’t think there’s such a thing as too much change.”
While Liverpool’s attack seems strong, manager Arne Slot may still want another striker if Isak becomes available. Strengthening the defense is also a priority, with Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace high on their list. However, Liverpool do not want to overpay for him.
The club is also looking at young defenders Giovanni Leoni from Parma and Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal from Rennes. Meanwhile, several players could leave Anfield before the transfer window closes.
Kostas Tsimikas has been linked with Leeds after being left out of the squad for the Community Shield. Harvey Elliott could also be sold if the right offer comes in, with RB Leipzig showing interest.
Federico Chiesa’s future is uncertain, as he has struggled for game time. Young players like Ben Doak, Luca Stephenson, James McConnell, and Lewis Koumas are attracting loan interest from several clubs in England and Scotland.
For now, the biggest story remains Alexander Isak’s standoff with Newcastle. The question is whether Liverpool will move again for the striker, and whether Newcastle will finally give in to his wish to leave.
If they do, it would mark the end of a short but memorable spell on Tyneside for Isak, whose goals lit up St James’ Park but whose relationship with the club has now completely broken down.
