Liverpool’s pursuit of Alexander Isak has taken a dramatic twist after reports claimed the Newcastle United striker is adamant he will never play for the Magpies again — even if a dream move to Anfield fails to materialise this summer.
The Athletic reports that Isak has rejected a new contract offer from Newcastle and has been training away from the first-team squad as the saga drags on. The Sweden international’s stance remains firm: his time at St James’ Park is over.
Liverpool have already seen a bid worth £110 million ($147.8m) rejected, but are believed to be considering an improved offer if Newcastle soften their position. For now, the club remain determined to keep their star forward despite the growing tension.
Isak, 25, is said to have informed manager Eddie Howe of his desire to leave two weeks before last season ended, later reiterating his stance once the campaign was over. He was left out of Newcastle’s pre-season squad this summer, further fuelling speculation over his future.
Reports suggest Isak told Newcastle last summer that the 2024–25 season would be his last with the club, although some sources close to the situation dispute this, claiming contract talks were always expected to take place this summer.
Newcastle, meanwhile, are scrambling to identify a replacement. Their attempts to sign Benjamin Šeško, Liam Delap, João Pedro and Hugo Ekitiké have failed, but Brentford’s Yoane Wissa is now among the names under consideration.
A resolution is yet to be found, but one thing is clear — Isak’s chapter at Newcastle appears to be drawing to a close.
