· 4 September 2025, 15:30
**Newcastle United's refusal to offer Alexander Isak improved terms last year was the catalyst that kick-started one of the most turbulent summers in recent memory.**
Whatever the truth is behind the story that Isak was promised a new contract by Amanda Staveley, the fact of the matter is that by the time it came for the club to make good on that promise, Staveley was no longer part of the club. Paul Mitchell saw the terms Isak was on and that he had four years remaining on his contract, and weighing that up against the fact that Newcastle had just had to sell two promising young stars to comply with PSR, he rightly made the decision to hold off on offering a new contract to the Swede.
From what we've heard since, it wasn't just the refusal that irked Isak, but the manner in which it was delivered, with Mitchell said to be lacking tact.
However, the refusal to improve his terms ultimately led to the most acrimonious player departure we've seen on Tyneside for a long time, probably ever.
Sven Botman could be set for improved terms at NUFC
Newcastle want to tie down Tino Livramento long-term after being eyed by Manchester City
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Now the [iPaper](https://inews.co.uk/sport/football/saudi-pif-alexander-isak-newcastle-future-3892017?ito=link_share_article-top) have reported that the club are keen to make sure that such a mistake isn't repeated and have three players in their plans to offer new contracts.
Starting with Tino Livramento, who was heavily linked with a move to Manchester City this summer. The England full-back has quickly fulfilled his potential on Tyneside, breaking into the senior England side and catching the eye of Pep Guardiola. Newcastle must show the player that he's appreciated in order to keep him happy.
Also eyed for new terms are Sandro Tonali and Sven Botman. The former has proved himself as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League and an instrumental figure in Newcastle's engine room.
Sven Botman may have to prove his ability to remain available for selection
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Sven Botman is an interesting one. We all know how good he is, and now he's back in the mix for a regular starting place and proving himself again, there's no getting away from the fact that the Dutchman has missed a lot of football with two separate knee injuries.
We still need convincing that those injuries haven't done any lasting damage and aren't likely to recur.
Regardless, it's good to see that the club have learned from their mistakes, and hopefully now that David Hopkinson has been announced as the new CEO, he will ensure that these things are kept on top of.