Newcastle must make a decisive move regarding Isak

In the closing days of the 2025 summer transfer window, the Alexander Isak transfer remained the center of attention, as he firmly wished to leave St James' Park to join Liverpool, despite the Saudi owners' efforts to keep him.

1. Just before the match between Newcastle and Liverpool earlier this week, a senior delegation from the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) — including Chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan and co-owner Jamie Reuben — personally visited Isak’s home to persuade him. They presented an attractive offer, including a new contract with a promise that he would stay at least until the end of the season. However, according to several sources in Northeast England, all negotiations stalled.

Isak continues to train separately from the first team, clearly showing his dissatisfaction and determination to move to Anfield. Since the end of last season, he has not appeared for Newcastle, and this absence has partially caused difficulties for the “Magpies,” as shown by their 2-3 loss to Liverpool.

Anthony Gordon, used as a temporary option in the striker role, recently received his third red card in 17 months and will be suspended for three matches, including the upcoming game against Leeds this weekend. Callum Wilson has moved to West Ham, leaving a major gap still unfilled.

New signing Will Osula scored an impressive goal against Liverpool, but manager Eddie Howe remains cautious, judging that he is not yet ready for regular starts. Consequently, after the first two rounds, Newcastle has only earned a single point, while the attack clearly lacks sharpness.

2. Liverpool promptly tabled a huge offer of £110 million, a record fee in England. However, Newcastle immediately rejected it. Liverpool then stated they would not increase the offer unless they received positive feedback from the other party.

Initially, Newcastle firmly declared that Isak was "not for sale." However, last week, they unexpectedly signaled readiness to negotiate if two conditions were met: selling for at least £150 million and securing two quality forwards. The black-and-white striped club is actively chasing Yoane Wissa (Brentford) and Jorgen Strand Larsen (Wolves), after a £50 million offer for Larsen was turned down. Additionally, Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson — regarded as surplus at Stamford Bridge — is listed as a backup option, although his skill and discipline cannot match Isak’s.

At this point, the Isak saga has taken full attention, stretching from the "not for sale at any price" declaration to failed talks. This ambiguity has not only tired the coaching staff but also directly impacted players and supporters.

3. If Newcastle truly wants to retain Isak, they need a clear and strong public message compelling him to return to training and contribute on the field. Isak himself has limited choices left: time is against him, and once the transfer window closes, he must play or risk stalling his career.

On the other hand, if selling is chosen, Newcastle must swiftly complete the deal with Liverpool for £150 million and use the funds to bolster the squad. Prolonging indecision will only trap them in a dilemma with a weakened attack and could lead to a severe drop in results.

Today, Newcastle is no longer a mid-level club lacking ambition. With vast financial resources from PIF, the allure of the Champions League, and the passionate atmosphere at St James’ Park, they have everything needed to become a new Premier League powerhouse. However, to achieve this, the club requires unity and consistency from the top down.

The huge banner in the Gallowgate stand reading "No one achieves success alone" is the message the leadership must take to heart. End the Isak saga immediately so the entire team can focus on football instead of off-field distractions. Newcastle supporters deserve a team that is strong, decisive, and not distracted by personal conflicts.

Tran Giap