Alexander Isak, Newcastle United’s star striker, has made a dramatic decision that has left the football world in shock. The Swedish forward has reportedly refused to play for the club again as he tries to force a £150 million move to Liverpool.
This saga has been brewing for months, but now the tension has reached boiling point. Isak, Newcastle’s top scorer last season, has told the club he will not return to the pitch for them, even if no transfer deal is completed before the September 1 deadline.
Liverpool, who already had a bid worth up to £120 million (including add-ons) rejected earlier this summer, could now be in a stronger position to get their man. Reports suggest an improved offer of around £150 million might be enough to make Newcastle reconsider.
The news was first reported by The Athletic, revealing that Isak made up his mind about leaving as far back as last season. He allegedly decided to move after learning that Newcastle would not offer him a new contract.
📰 Also Read This:
Newcastle fans are known for their fierce loyalty, and football pundit Ally McCoist believes Isak’s actions may have crossed the line. Speaking to Mirror Football, McCoist said:
“I think he’s been poor. You can’t behave like that. The one set of supporters that won’t let you away with it are Newcastle fans. It’s hard to argue with them.”
Isak’s current deal runs until 2028, meaning Newcastle are not under financial pressure to sell him. However, the player’s refusal to play could create an uncomfortable situation for manager Eddie Howe and the club’s board.
Liverpool are looking for another top striker after the exits of Luis Díaz and Darwin Núñez earlier in the summer. The club has already made big signings, including breaking their transfer record for German wonderkid Florian Wirtz and bringing in Hugo Ekitike from PSG.
Still, Jurgen Klopp is said to want another proven goal scorer, and Isak, with his pace, height, and finishing ability, fits the bill perfectly.
Newcastle’s problems don’t end with Isak. Earlier this summer, they also let veteran striker Callum Wilson leave on a free transfer. Many of their other striker targets, such as Joao Pedro (now at Chelsea) and Benjamin Sesko (now at Manchester United), have slipped away.
Porto’s Samu Omorodion and Brentford’s Yoane Wissa are reportedly among Newcastle’s current shortlist. But with just weeks left in the transfer window, Howe’s team is running out of time to bring in reinforcements.
For now, Newcastle must prepare for their Premier League opener against Aston Villa without their star striker. Liverpool, meanwhile, face Bournemouth in their first game of the season, and there’s growing hope among Reds fans that Isak could be wearing their shirt soon.
If the move happens before the deadline, Isak could make his Liverpool debut early in the campaign, and possibly against some of the same teams he dominated last season for Newcastle.
The Swedish striker scored crucial goals to help Newcastle qualify for the Champions League, making him one of the most important players in their recent history. Yet now, it appears his heart is firmly set on Anfield.
Behind the scenes, Isak reportedly informed Eddie Howe of his desire to leave even before last season ended. That decision seems to have been final, regardless of Newcastle’s attempts to keep him.
For Liverpool, signing Isak would be a huge statement. They would not only be adding one of the Premier League’s best finishers but also weakening a direct top-four rival.
Newcastle fans, however, will feel betrayed. After all, they embraced Isak as one of their own, cheering him through every goal and every win. The idea that he may refuse to play could leave a bitter taste for years to come.
As the clock ticks down to the September 1 deadline, this transfer saga is set to be one of the most talked-about stories of the summer. Will Liverpool get their man? Or will Newcastle force Isak to sit out the season in protest?
One thing is certain, the football world will be watching every twist and turn.
