A contract clause relating to Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak could potentially complicate any move to Liverpool after the wantaway star released a statement
Alexander Isak poses for photos after signing for Newcastle United
A clause in the Newcastle contract Alexander Isak signed in 2022 could complicate a move to Liverpool
(Image: Getty)
Newcastle's Alexander Isak has finally spoken out as his Liverpool transfer saga drags on. However, a clause in the 25-year-old's contract relating to former club Real Sociedad could complicate matters further.
The Swedish striker made his intentions clear last month that he wished to explore opportunities away from St James' Park, and although the Reds did table a £110million offer for the star, it was short of Newcastle's asking price. A deadlock has now emerged, with Isak declining to play for the club, and the Magpies maintaining he is not for sale and will stay on Tyneside unless a suitable bid materialises.
On Tuesday, Isak addressed the situation for the first time since the controversy erupted, clarifying his non-appearance at the Professional Footballers' Association's awards ceremony. Newcastle responded pointedly, as the prospect of a deal with Liverpool hangs in the balance, though a sell-on clause written into the 25-year-old's contract could create additional complications.
Isak's statement was scathing. Amid this increasingly toxic dispute, the star forward, who has been training separately from Newcastle's first team, alleged that commitments had been reneged upon.
"I've kept quiet for a long time while others have spoken," wrote Isak. "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.
Alexander Isak of Real Sociedad looks on during the LaLiga Santander match between Real Sociedad and Real Betis
Isak's former employers would receive 10 per cent of any profit he is sold for
"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."
However, securing Isak would prove enormously challenging. The Reds' £110m offer was promptly rejected, with the striker reportedly valued at an eye-watering £150m. It appears a British record fee would be required to bring him to Anfield.
Further complicating matters is a sell-on agreement included when Isak joined Newcastle from Real Sociedad in 2022. The Sweden international arrived on Tyneside for £63m, with a 10 per cent capital gains clause written into the contract, reports the Mirror.
This provision would entitle the Spanish club to that percentage of any profit from Isak's eventual departure. If he were sold for £150m, for instance, Real Sociedad would pocket £8.7m.
Such terms could prompt Newcastle to seek an even steeper fee for Isak, with Liverpool potentially needing to pay additional funds to ensure the Magpies receive an acceptable final amount.
As their response to Isak's statement indicates, Newcastle themselves don't anticipate a deal materialising this transfer window. 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 team-mates."