Tensions Rise as Isak Pushes for Liverpool Move
The summer transfer window has taken a dramatic turn on Tyneside. Alexander Isak, Newcastle United’s marquee striker, is reportedly refusing to train and will miss the club’s Premier League opener against Aston Villa — a clear indication of his desire to leave for Liverpool. Despite the disruption, Newcastle are increasingly likely to retain the 25-year-old Swede, at least for now.
Isak’s camp, led by influential agent Vlado Lermic, has advised the player to hold his ground and show no signs of backing down, in what’s become a tense standoff with club management.
Liverpool’s Bid Rejected, No Second Offer in Sight
Liverpool made a bold £110 million move for Isak earlier this summer, aiming to bolster their attacking line. But Newcastle rejected the offer outright, and no follow-up bid has come since. With their main replacement target, Benjamin Sesko, opting for Manchester United, Newcastle are now without a clear succession plan.
This lack of a viable alternative has complicated matters for the Magpies, pushing them toward keeping Isak rather than risking a weakened squad heading into a crucial season.
Newcastle’s Plan: Multiple Scenarios in Play
According to club insider Craig Hope, Newcastle are juggling several contingency plans:
- Scenario A: Reinstate Isak into the squad, offer a new deal with a release clause, and promise a 2026 exit — a move that would require serious reconciliation.
- Scenario B: Secure a suitable replacement and then approve a transfer, maximizing financial return.
- Scenario C: Most likely as of now — keep Isak against his will, hope tensions ease post-deadline, and reintegrate him into the squad.
- Scenario D: Sell Isak late in the window and rely on Anthony Gordon and Brentford’s Yoane Wissa (expected to sign soon) until January.
Despite the chaos, Newcastle’s hierarchy seems increasingly inclined to gamble on Scenario C, keeping their top scorer and betting on his eventual cooperation once the transfer window slams shut on September 1.
Isak’s Stance: Unyielding and Influenced
Isak’s desire to leave isn’t just personal — it’s strategic. His agent, Lermic, reportedly sees this move as his final major transfer before retirement. That long-term motivation has shaped the firm stance Isak is taking, despite Newcastle’s willingness to work toward a future exit.
As a result, Newcastle are set to fine Isak for missing Saturday’s fixture — the first official disciplinary action in this escalating dispute.
What Comes Next?
With Newcastle’s season about to kick off and no deal on the table, the club may have no choice but to hold onto their star striker. Whether Isak returns to the squad or remains sidelined in protest, the situation is likely to remain volatile until at least the end of the window.
For now, the message from St. James’ Park is clear: unless a massive shift occurs, Alexander Isak stays — whether he likes it or not.
