As if Alexander Isak's prospective move from Newcastle to Liverpool wasn't complicated enough already, a clause inserted in his current contract may cause further issues
13:32, 20 Aug 2025
Alexander Isak poses for photos after signing for Newcastle United at St. James Park on August 26, 2022
A clause written into Alexander Isak's Newcastle deal could complicate a move to Liverpool(Image: Getty)
Newcastle's Alexander Isak has finally spoken out as his Liverpool transfer saga rumbles on, but a clause in the 25-year-old's contract could complicate matters further.
The Swedish forward made it clear last month that he was keen to explore opportunities beyond St James' Park, and whilst the Reds did table a £110million offer, this was someway short of Newcastle's asking price. A deadlock has emerged, with Isak refusing to turn out for the Magpies, whilst the club maintains he's not available and will stay on Tyneside unless a suitable bid materialises.
On Tuesday, Isak broke his silence for the first time since the controversy erupted, addressing his absence from the Professional Footballers' Association's awards ceremony. Newcastle delivered a pointed response, 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 standoff, the star forward, who has been training separately from Newcastle's first team, alleged that pledges had been reneged upon.
"I've kept quiet for a long time while others have spoken," Isak penned. "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.
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"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."
Eddie Howe with Alexander Isak
Isak broke his silence on Tuesday evening(Image: Getty)
However, securing a deal for Isak would prove extremely complex. The Reds' £110m offer was quickly rejected, with the striker believed to be valued at a staggering £150m. It appears a British record transfer fee would be required to land his signature.
Further complicating matters is a sell-on clause included in Isak's contract when he joined Newcastle from Real Sociedad in 2022. The Sweden international arrived in England for £63m, with a 10 per cent sell-on clause attached to his agreement.
This means the Spanish club would receive that percentage of any profit from Isak's future sale. Should he move for £150m, for instance, Real Sociedad would pocket £8.7m.
Such a clause could force Newcastle to demand an even steeper price for Isak, with Liverpool potentially needing to pay additional funds to ensure the Magpies receive a final figure they deem acceptable. As their response to Isak's statement indicates, Newcastle themselves don't anticipate a deal materialising this window.
The club's 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."
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