Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak has broken his silence amid a bitter transfer dispute with Liverpool, but a sell-on clause in his contract could further complicate any potential move. The 25-year-old Swedish international has refused to play for the Magpies after a £110 million bid from Liverpool was rejected, with Newcastle valuing him at £150 million.
Isak released a statement on Tuesday accusing the club of breaking promises. He wrote: "I've kept quiet for a long time while others have spoken. 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."
Newcastle responded firmly, stating that no commitment was ever made to allow Isak to leave this summer. The club said: "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."
A key complication is a 10 per cent sell-on clause inserted when Isak joined Newcastle from Real Sociedad in 2022 for £63 million. The Spanish club would receive 10 per cent of any profit from a future sale. For a £150 million transfer, that would mean £8.7 million going to Spain, potentially prompting Newcastle to demand an even higher fee to ensure they receive a satisfactory net sum.
The impasse continues with Isak training away from the first team and Liverpool yet to meet Newcastle's valuation. A British record transfer fee appears necessary to secure the striker, but with the club insisting a sale is unlikely this window, the saga looks set to drag on.
