Alexander Isak’s recent decision to publicly accuse Newcastle United of breaking promises has sparked intensified speculation regarding his future with the club. The 25-year-old Sweden international expressed that he “can’t continue” under the current circumstances, asserting that “change is in the best interests of everyone.” His remarks have left many wondering if a transfer is already a done deal.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe recently expressed that his new star Isak has control over his own destiny. It was a promising sign that the club is open to talking more about the striker’s situation. Such an absence from squad training suggests there are deeper issues at play. Now, he’s going lazing solo, out of the pocket. This late twist makes things very tricky for Newcastle, especially in light of Liverpool’s reported interest in the player.
Just earlier this month, Liverpool placed a club record bid of 110 million pounds, about $148 million, for Isak. Newcastle wasted little time in quashing the bid. Rumors have it that the club has increased its asking price for Isak to 150 million pounds ($201.1 million), a British record transfer fee. This daunting price tag makes the negotiations deeply challenging. It’s been a tough blow for Liverpool since their first bid was turned down. They are not done with their pursuit of Isak and appear willing to resume negotiations as soon as the opportunity presents itself.
Even after losing to Liverpool, Arne Slot, Feyenoord’s manager, admitted that they will struggle to hold onto their best players. He indicated that the club would only pursue Isak or any other player if the conditions align perfectly, stating, “It needs to be everything we want: right transfer fee, right position and the player wants to come to us.” He insisted that Liverpool could not be swayed or rushed into making a decision, instead looking for players who matched their larger strategic vision.
In just days, Liverpool will head to St. James’ Park to face Newcastle in their next match. Slot noted that Isak’s absence should present an equal challenge to either side. As for the disruption it has brought about Newcastle, Cityworld commented that this will not help Liverpool’s upcoming trip to the northeast. Ahead of the tie, Slot closely shown options discovered of his team. He singled out Wataru Endo and Dominik Szoboszlai though, who had previous chemistry after playing together at Stuttgart.
“Wataru Endo played there for a few minutes. Dominik Szoboszlai has already played there. There are other options we can explore.” – Arne Slot (Source: Al Jazeera and news agencies)
On the topic of squad depth for Liverpool Slot said he was happy with his players as they are but was open to improvements. “I am happy with the squad, but if we think there is a player who can really make us better, then this club has always shown they can bring them in,” he said.
