Alexander Isak remains in limbo at Newcastle United with Liverpool watching on with interest after the player released a statement on his future last night
Isaac is a senior NCTJ-trained journalist with an MA in News Journalism. He has experience of working for national and regional news organisations including the Express, the Mirror and the Manchester Evening News. He currently covers sport across all national and regional sites at Reach PLC.
Newcastle United's Alexander Isak looks on
Liverpool continue to be linked with a summer move for Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak
The Alexander Isak to Liverpool transfer saga took an explosive twist on Tuesday night after the Newcastle United striker posted a statement on social media. Isak was notably absent from Newcastle's Premier League opener against Aston Villa on Saturday, and our sister title ChronicleLive understands the club are considering their next move.
The £150million-rated Swedish forward has recovered from the groin injury that sidelined him for the pre-season tour to the Far East, but he is reportedly set on a move to Anfield before the summer transfer window shuts on 1 September.
The 25-year-old appeared to suggest in Tuesday's statement that promises have been broken behind the scenes. Newcastle have denied this in their response to Isak's comments.
And one line from the Magpies' reply has clearly explained why Isak is yet to join Arne Slot's team. "We have been clear that the conditions of a sale this summer have not transpired," they said.
Perhaps more notably, they add: "We do not foresee those conditions being met." Of course, with Liverpool to face Newcastle in the Premier League on Monday night - any move to Merseyside is unlikely to take place before then.
Newcastle have endured an abysmal transfer window, having missed out on several key targets this summer including Hugo Ekitike. That makes any Isak sale that little bit less likely for now.
There would be uproar at St James' Park if they sell their key forward and do not bring in an adequate replacement. After winning a trophy and qualifying for the Champions League - this was meant to be the summer where Eddie Howe's side would kick on.
Tet any player has their price and if Liverpool look to make an increased bid on their initial £110million offer, there must be some temptation at Newcastle. All eyes will now be on the Reds' next move.