Alexander Isak has publicly claimed that Newcastle United have “broken promises” and that “the relationship can’t continue” as he pushes for a summer exit.
It has been nearly three weeks since Liverpool’s £110m bid for the Sweden striker was rejected, leaving him in a standoff with the club over his future.
According to BBC Sport, Isak believed he would be allowed to leave if a major club came in with the right offer.
On Tuesday, the forward posted a statement on Instagram explaining why he skipped the Professional Footballers’ Association awards gala, despite being named in the Premier League team of the season.
“I’ve stayed silent while others talked, but that has let people twist the story,” he wrote.
“The truth is, promises were made, and the club has long known my stance. Acting like these issues are new is misleading. When trust is lost, the relationship cannot continue. That’s why change is best for everyone.”
Newcastle later released their own statement, denying any agreement that Isak could leave.
“We are clear that Alex remains under contract and no official has promised him a move this summer. We always listen to players’ views but must act in the best interest of Newcastle United, the squad, and our supporters. The conditions for a sale have not been met and we do not expect them to be.”
The saga has become one of the biggest talking points of the summer window, which closes on 1 September. Liverpool have yet to return with an improved offer, though reports suggest their next bid could start at £120m.
Why hasn’t Liverpool come back with another offer?
Part of the reason lies in Newcastle’s own transfer business. Despite signing midfielder Jacob Ramsey, defender Malick Thiaw, winger Anthony Elanga, and goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, none of these deals addressed their striker shortage—especially after Callum Wilson’s departure.
Sources indicate that Liverpool are waiting for Newcastle to sign at least two forwards before making another approach for Isak.
Newcastle’s striker search stalls
Head coach Eddie Howe has admitted the focus is solely on finding new strikers, but deals have proven complicated.
Yoane Wissa of Brentford and Wolves’ Jorgen Strand Larsen are among the top targets, yet both are difficult to prise away late in the window. With Anthony Gordon deployed as a makeshift forward, Newcastle are running out of time to strengthen.
A difficult market and missed chances
This summer, Newcastle have missed out on strikers such as Hugo Ekitike, Benjamin Sesko, and Joao Pedro, who joined other Premier League rivals.
With goalscorers commanding premium fees, Newcastle are wary of overspending, despite improved financial flexibility under Profit and Sustainability Rules.
Can Isak still be reintegrated?
Howe has insisted the “door is open” for Isak to return, though the Swede continues to train separately.
Newcastle’s statement reaffirmed their “family values” and said Isak would be welcomed back when ready, but tensions remain high—fans recently labelled him “greedy” during a match against Aston Villa.
Time is running out before deadline day, and with elite strikers scarce on the market, Newcastle may find that keeping and reintegrating Isak is their best option—whether he wants it or not.
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