Newcastle United has issued a statement after Alexander Isak publicly expressed his desire to leave the club. The player has been informed that he won't be granted a summer transfer.
Isak broke his silence on Tuesday after being named to the PFA Team of the Season, though he missed the awards ceremony due to his ongoing transfer saga. Isak claimed that he had been given false promises and lost trust, and suggested it was in everyone's best interests if he left the club immediately.
Newcastle rejected a $148 million offer from Liverpool earlier this summer, and was only open to a sale if certain conditions were met. The club was blindsided by Isak's statement and has expressed disappointment in his behaviour, reminding the player that he remains under contract.
"We are disappointed to have been alerted to a social media post by Alexander Isak this evening," the statement read. "We are clear in response that Alex remains under contract and that no commitment has ever been made by a club official that Alex can leave Newcastle United this summer.
"We want to keep our best players, but we also understand players have their own wishes and we listen to their views. As explained to Alex and his representatives, we must always take into consideration the best interests of Newcastle United, the team and our supporters in all decisions and we have been clear that the conditions of a sale this summer have not transpired.
"We do not foresee those conditions being met.
"This is a proud football club with proud traditions and we strive to retain our family feel. Alex remains part of our family and will be welcomed back when he is ready to rejoin his teammates."
More to follow...