The drama between Newcastle United and Alexander Isak is heating up, and a former Liverpool star has now joined the conversation.
Peter Crouch, who played for Liverpool from 2005 to 2008, making 85 appearances and scoring 22 goals, has criticised Isak’s decision to stop playing for Newcastle in order to force a transfer to Liverpool.
Isak, Newcastle’s star striker, has not trained with Eddie Howe’s first team since the squad returned from their pre-season tour of Asia. He is refusing to play in competitive matches, hoping that Liverpool will make another offer for him before the transfer window closes on September 1.
Liverpool had already made a huge £120 million bid earlier this month, but Newcastle rejected it immediately. The Magpies have made it clear they do not want to sell Isak at any price.
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In the meantime, Liverpool have been focusing on their defence, agreeing a £26 million deal for Parma’s Giovanni Leoni and holding talks with Crystal Palace over Marc Guehi. That has left Isak’s dream move hanging in the balance.
Crouch, speaking to Mirror Football, said he thinks the situation has been badly handled by the player. “I don’t like the way it’s been handled,” he said. “I think Newcastle have been disrespected by the player, and it leaves a sour taste. The fans and the club have been good with Isak, so going on strike just feels like a step too far, especially when you’re under contract.”
Crouch admitted that seeing Isak in a Liverpool shirt would be “unbelievable,” but he believes there are better ways to achieve that than refusing to play.
He also reminded fans that during his own career, when he was transferred nine times, he never had to go on strike to secure a move. “It’s a big gamble. Newcastle is a massive club, and not one that has to sell its best players. The fans expect them to compete with Liverpool, not sell players to them.”
Isak’s refusal to play could soon lead to financial punishment. According to reports, Newcastle are prepared to fine the striker if he misses their opening Premier League match against Aston Villa. So far, he has still been collecting his £140,000-a-week wages despite not taking part in matches.
Club sources say the fine will only be issued when he fails to appear in a competitive game. That means if Isak does not play against Aston Villa, the punishment will officially begin.
Isak’s stance appears firm. He believes backing down would signal to Newcastle that he could be convinced to stay, something he doesn’t want to happen if it means missing the chance to join Liverpool.
The problem for Newcastle is that they have not yet found a replacement for him. They have looked at options, including Yoane Wissa, but no deal has been agreed.
Eddie Howe has admitted the situation hurt team morale during pre-season. “When you have a player that good who is not part of your group, it’s difficult for the players to understand and to know how to react,” he said. “But as time has gone on, there has been acceptance, and the atmosphere in the group has been very good in the last couple of weeks.”
Crouch thinks Isak could still repair his relationship with the fans, but it would take goals and hard work. He compared it to Cristiano Ronaldo’s situation with Wayne Rooney after the 2006 World Cup, when tensions quickly faded after strong performances.
“If he comes back and starts scoring goals, things can change very quickly,” Crouch said. “But right now, it feels too far gone.”
Many Newcastle fans feel betrayed, especially since the club gave Isak the platform to shine in the Premier League and a big contract.
On social media, the debate is intense. Some supporters believe Isak has the right to push for his dream move, while others think loyalty should come first.
As the clock ticks down to September 1, all sides are under pressure. If Liverpool make another big offer, the situation could change instantly. If they don’t, Isak might be left with no choice but to face the boos at St James’ Park and try to win back the trust of the Toon Army.
One thing is certain: the Newcastle–Liverpool transfer battle has become one of the most gripping stories of the summer. And with Isak now facing punishment, the next chapter could be even more dramatic.
