Newcastle Stunned as Alexander Isak Drops Bombshell Transfer Decision

Alexander Isak is said to be resolute in his decision to never represent Newcastle United again, regardless of whether his desired move to Liverpool materializes before the summer transfer window closes.

Reports surfaced in recent weeks that Isak had rejected Newcastle's contract extension proposal, hoping to secure a departure from St James' Park during this transfer period. The situation has since deteriorated into an increasingly messy dispute, with Isak being separated from the main training group.

Liverpool's initial £110 million ($147.8 million) offer was turned down, though the Reds are understood to be willing to return with an enhanced bid should Newcastle reconsider their position on selling. Currently, the Magpies have accepted that Isak cannot rejoin the squad while maintaining their resolve to retain the Swedish striker.

While Isak is eager to complete his switch to Liverpool this summer, The Athletic reports that he remains convinced his Newcastle career has reached its conclusion, regardless of the outcome.

Should Newcastle block his exit this summer, Isak is reportedly willing to continue his current position and has no intention of rejoining the squad or featuring for the club moving forward.

Sources suggest that Isak notified Newcastle last summer of his intention to make the 2024–25 campaign his final season at the club, though the Magpies declined to present him with fresh terms due to Premier League financial regulations concerns.

However, the report indicates that some individuals close to the matter have disputed this account, claiming instead that Isak had always intended to evaluate his options, including potentially signing a new deal, during this summer.

Isak reportedly communicated his exit wishes to head coach Eddie Howe two weeks prior to the season's conclusion and reinforced this position after the campaign ended. The matter became public knowledge when Isak was omitted from Newcastle's pre-season preparations this summer.

Newcastle continue their search for an adequate Isak replacement. They were unsuccessful in their pursuit of Benjamin Šeško, who chose Manchester United, having previously missed out on Liam Delap, João Pedro and Hugo Ekitiké during this window, but remain active in the market. Brentford's Yoane Wissa is reportedly among their targets under consideration.