Alexander Isak released an explosive statement about his future earlier this week. The 25-year-old is currently training away from Newcastle United's first-team amid interest from Liverpool.
The Swede was named in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year earlier this week but decided to skip the awards amid uncertainty surrounding his future. On the same night, Isak released an explosive statement where he explained his stance and said that his relationship with Newcastle 'can't continue.'
He wrote: "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.
"I'm not at the ceremony tonight. With everything going on, it didn't feel right to be there. I've kept quiet for a long time while others have spoken. That silence allowed others 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. 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."
Alexander Isak Hasn't Handed in a Transfer Request
alexander isak
Despite Isak's statement where he made clear his intentions to depart the club, he is yet to officially hand in a transfer request. The reason for that has now been explained and it's simple - it's all down to money.
The BBC have reported that formally handing in an official transfer request can lead to significant financial penalties for a player. It constitutes a breach of a player's contract, meaning that a player could no longer be entitled to contractual bonuses - including signing-on fees and loyalty bonuses.
Isak is reported to earn £120,000-per-week at Newcastle before bonuses.
Newcastle Respond to Isak's Statement
Alexander Isak in action for Newcastle United
Even though Isak hasn't officially handed in a transfer request, they are well aware that he is not happy at the club. They made their stance clear earlier this week as they responded to their star striker's social media statement.
They wrote: "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.”
It remains to be seen whether Isak will still be a Newcastle player when the summer transfer window closes on September 1, 2025.