Aston Villa FC v Newcastle United FC - Premier League
Alexander Isak has issued a remarkable statement (Picture: Getty)
Liverpool target Alexander Isak has said his relationship with Newcastle United ‘can’t continue’ as he spoke publicly for the first time about his future.
The Swedish striker, who scored 23 Premier League goals last season, has made clear his desire to leave St James’ Park this summer to join the defending champions.
However, Newcastle have held firm and said they won’t sell the player, who still has three years left on his contract, unless their £150million valuation is met.
Isak opted out of Newcastle’s pre-season tour and missed their league opener as he continues to train separately from the rest of Eddie Howe’s first-team squad.
But the 25-year-old has taken it a step further as he looks to force a move this summer, releasing a remarkable public statement in which he accused Newcastle of ‘breaking promises’ made to him.
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Posting on Instagram after he was named in the PFA Premier League team of the Year, Isak said: ‘I’m proud to be recognised by my fellow professionals with a place in the PFA Premier League Team of the Season for 2024/25.
‘First and foremost I want to thank my teammates and everyone at Newcastle United who has supported me along the way.
Newcastle United FC v Everton FC - Premier League
Alexander Isak accused Newcastle of breaking promises (Picture: Getty)
‘I’m not at the ceremony tonight. With be everything going on, it didn’t feel right to there.
‘I’ve kept quiet for a long time while others have spoken. That silence has allowed people to push their own version of events, even though they know it doesn’t reflect what was really said and agreed behind closed doors.
‘The reality is that promises were made and the club has known my position for a long time. To now act as if these issues are only emerging is misleading.
Liverpool v Newcastle United - Carabao Cup Final
Isak helped Newcastle win the Carabao Cup last season (Picture: Getty)
‘When promises are broken and trust is lost, the relationship can’t continue. That’s where things are for me right now – and why change is in the best interests of everyone, not just myself.’
Newcastle have always made clear that Isak could be reintegrated into the squad should he not leave before the end of the window, but the striker’s statement now surely puts even that into doubt.
Speaking after their draw with Aston Villa on Saturday, Howe said: ‘‘Nothing has changed. The door is well and truly open,’ the Newcastle head coach said.
‘He has to decide what he wants to do. We would like a resolution. We need that clarity. You don’t need any kind of distraction.
‘I am not in control of that. There is one person who can control that. Let’s wait and see. I have made my stance clear. I am concentrating on the team.’
Reports suggest that Liverpool are expected to return with a new and improved offer in the coming days after their initial £110m bid was swiftly rejected by the Magpies.
More to follow…
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