Alexander Isak's Contract Demands Place His Future at Newcastle in Doubt
Newcastle United are currently facing a challenging situation regarding the future of their star striker, Alexander Isak. The Swedish international, who has been a key player for the club, has reportedly made substantial new contract demands that have shocked the club's hierarchy.
According to multiple reports, Isak is asking for a weekly wage of around £300,000 to extend his stay at St James’ Park. This figure would place him among the top ten highest-paid players in the Premier League, a significant increase from Newcastle’s current wage structure. The club, having previously been willing to offer up to £200,000 per week, is now reconsidering its stance given the scale of Isak's demands.
Despite the high demands, Newcastle have publicly maintained that Isak is "not for sale," even as serious interest comes from Liverpool and clubs in Saudi Arabia. Liverpool, in particular, have made a clear approach to Newcastle, signaling they could make a major bid should Newcastle soften their current position.
Adding to the uncertainty, Isak did not participate in Newcastle’s recent pre-season match against Celtic and was sent home by manager Eddie Howe, who cited the player's unsettled situation amid transfer speculation. Howe has expressed that he cannot guarantee Isak’s stay at Newcastle this summer, especially with the striker's representatives indicating they are analyzing all options.
Behind the scenes, tensions appear to have risen due to Newcastle’s failure to honor a prior contract promise after the exit of sporting director Paul Mitchell. This, coupled with unsuccessful transfer pursuits by Newcastle, has seemingly unsettled Isak and opened the door for competing clubs to push for his signature.
Newcastle still hold Isak under contract until 2028, yet this summer may represent the club’s best chance to either secure the player’s future on agreeable terms or consider a lucrative sale should wage demands prove untenable.