Newcastle has denied that it offered Alexander Isak any assurances that he could leave this summer, as the striker seeks a transfer to Liverpool.
The club stated they “do not anticipate” selling the player, as the necessary conditions for a sale are unlikely to be met in the remaining weeks of the transfer window.
The Soccer Special panel reacted to Isak’s comments amid the ongoing transfer situation.
Isak, who is a target for Liverpool, previously expressed that his relationship with Newcastle “cannot continue” and that “change is in the best interests of everyone,” accusing the club of failing to uphold promises regarding his future.
Shortly after Isak’s shocking statement, Newcastle countered his claim that he was told he could leave this summer, asserting that they “do not foresee” his departure, as the required terms have not been satisfied.
The possibility of Isak’s transfer has always hinged on Newcastle securing a suitable replacement and a club meeting their £150 million asking price.
With less than two weeks left in the transfer window, neither of these conditions has been fulfilled.
Currently, Isak, 25, is training separately from his teammates, but Newcastle emphasized: “Alex remains part of our family and will be welcomed back when he is ready to rejoin his teammates.”
In his statement, Isak said: “I have remained silent for a long time while others have spoken.
“This silence has allowed people to present their own narrative, even though they know it does not accurately reflect what was discussed and agreed upon privately.
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“The truth is that promises were made, and the club has been aware of my stance for quite some time. To now suggest that these issues are just coming to light is misleading.
“When promises are broken and trust is eroded, the relationship cannot continue. That is my current situation, and that is why change is necessary for everyone involved, not just for me.”
In response, Newcastle stated: “We aim to retain our best players, but we also recognize that players have their own desires, and we listen to their perspectives.
“As we have communicated to Alex and his representatives, we must always consider the best interests of Newcastle United, the team, and our supporters in all decisions.
“We have made it clear that the conditions for a sale this summer have not materialized. We do not expect those conditions to be met.
“This is a proud football club with a rich tradition, and we strive to maintain our family atmosphere. Alex remains part of our family and will be welcomed back when he is ready to return to his teammates.”
Earlier in August, Liverpool had a bid of £110 million plus add-ons rejected by Newcastle for the 25-year-old.
Isak publicly voiced his frustrations on Tuesday with an Instagram update during the PFA awards ceremony, which he did not attend despite being nominated for the Player of the Year award, due to his ongoing standoff with Newcastle.