Alexander Isak and Newcastle Trade Accusations Over ‘Broken Promises’ as Forward Tries to Force Liverpool Move

Alexander Isak claims “broken promises” by Newcastle United have irreparably damaged their relationship, as he seeks an exit this summer.

The Swedish international remains at odds with the club following Newcastle’s rejection of a £110 million bid from Liverpool 19 days ago.

BBC Sport reports that Isak believed he would be allowed to leave if a major club met Newcastle's asking price. On Tuesday, Isak released a statement on Instagram explaining his absence from the Professional Footballers' Association awards gala, where he was named to the Premier League Team of the Season.

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“I've remained silent while others have spoken,” Isak wrote. “This silence has allowed narratives to be spun, even though they misrepresent what was agreed upon privately. Promises were made, and the club has long been aware of my stance. To pretend these issues are new is misleading. When promises are broken and trust is lost, the relationship cannot continue. That's my current situation—change is in everyone's best interest, not just mine.”

Newcastle responded, expressing disappointment and stating, “Alex remains under contract, and no club official has ever committed to his departure this summer. We want to keep our best players, but we also understand players' desires. As explained to Alex and his representatives, Newcastle United's best interests, the team, and our supporters must always be considered. The conditions for a sale this summer have not been met, and we don't foresee them being met.”

Isak has been the summer transfer window's biggest story, but Liverpool has yet to submit an improved offer for the 25-year-old. With the window closing on September 1st, questions remain: Will Liverpool bid again? Will Isak return to training? What happens if a deal isn't reached by the deadline?

Liverpool's reluctance to make another bid is linked to Newcastle's recent transfer activity. After a slow start, Newcastle signed midfielder Jacob Ramsey from Aston Villa for £40 million, following the acquisition of AC Milan defender Malick Thiaw for a reported £34.6 million.

These signings followed the £55 million arrival of winger Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest and the loan signing of goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale. Crucially, none of these additions are strikers, a position of need even before Callum Wilson's departure and Isak's uncertain future.

Sources suggest Liverpool's next move hinges on Newcastle securing two strikers. While Newcastle publicly insists Isak is not for sale, Liverpool understands their search for two strikers indicates a potential willingness to sell. A second bid from Liverpool, expected to be at least £120 million, is anticipated once Newcastle addresses their striker shortage.

Newcastle's search for strikers has proven challenging. While interested in Yoane Wissa, they haven't met Brentford's £40 million asking price. Wolves are unwilling to part with Jorgen Strand Larsen, despite Newcastle's interest. These situations highlight the difficulty of acquiring key players late in the transfer window.

Despite recent successes, Newcastle has faced setbacks this summer, missing out on targets like Hugo Ekitike, Benjamin Sesko, and Joao Pedro, who joined Liverpool, Manchester United, and Chelsea, respectively.

Competition from top clubs, coupled with the high cost of goalscorers and the desire for playing time, has complicated their search. While Newcastle's financial position has improved, they remain cautious about overspending.

Manager Eddie Howe insists the door remains open for Isak's return, but the decision rests with the player.

Newcastle reiterated this sentiment, stating, “This is a proud football club… Alex remains part of our family and will be welcomed back.”

However, fan sentiment has turned against Isak, with chants of “greedy” echoing during a recent match. With limited time and options remaining in the transfer window, reintegrating Isak might be Newcastle's best, albeit unexpected, course of action.