A look back at the controversy between Isak and Newcastle

The ongoing turmoil between Alexander Isak and Newcastle United has brought their partnership to the edge of a major rift.

Once seen as Newcastle’s future star, Isak is now openly defiant, even going so far as to declare he will not play another minute for the club.These escalating tensions stem from more than a year of simmering disputes over transfer policies, compensation, and Newcastle’s ambitions.

The conflict peaked when Isak refused to attend the PFA awards, where he was nominated for Player of the Year, citing his unwillingness to represent Newcastle at any event. Shortly after, the Swedish striker posted a strong message on his personal page, insisting the Magpies had failed to keep their promises.

The root of this “battle” lies in Newcastle repeatedly assuring the 26-year-old star. Back in January 2024, co-owner Amanda Staveley pledged to offer Isak a new contract with a salary exceeding £120,000 per week.

However, sporting director Paul Mitchell later refused to approve it, arguing that Isak was already among the club’s top earners and still had four years left on his current deal. After Paul Mitchell’s departure, Isak’s agent, Vlado Lemic, stated his client would not renew and was ready to leave St James’ Park unless Newcastle could prove their ambition.

Isak grew increasingly frustrated as Newcastle repeatedly failed to strengthen the squad, especially in attack. Over the past year, the Northeast club missed out on key targets such as Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, Hugo Ekitike, and Benjamin Sesko. Additionally, financial fair play (PSR) restrictions prevented the Magpies from making major signings, and they even faced the possibility of selling Anthony Gordon last summer to balance the books. This situation has led Isak to feel the club lacks the ambition to compete for titles, prompting him to look for a new destination.

On Newcastle’s end, while the club has stated they will not sell Isak, management remains open to parting ways if presented with an “irresistible” offer. Currently, Liverpool—who have been monitoring Isak—have submitted two bids worth £110 million and £120 million, both rejected. However, sources suggest that an offer of £130 million plus add-ons could force Newcastle to concede in order to avoid the risk of a major star rebelling in the dressing room.

At present, Isak’s future remains highly uncertain. With nearly two weeks left in the transfer window and Liverpool still closely watching, if Newcastle cannot quickly resolve the situation, this standoff with Isak could become one of the summer’s biggest Premier League dramas.