Liverpool’s pursuit of Alexander Isak has turned into one of the transfer stories of the summer.
The Swedish striker wants a move away from Newcastle United, but negotiations have hit roadblocks that go far beyond a simple price tag.
The Reds already saw their £110 million offer dismissed, with Newcastle standing firm on a valuation closer to £150m.
Isak, meanwhile, has made his feelings public, claiming promises were broken. That statement has only added fuel to a fire that was already burning brightly on Tyneside.
Isak 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."
He added: "When promises are broken and trust is lost, the relationship can't continue. That's where things are for me right now - and why change is in the best interests of everyone, not just myself."
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For Newcastle, however, this is not just about player power. It’s about control, contracts, and clauses. And one hidden detail may explain why the Magpies are so reluctant to let their No. 14 leave.
The hidden Alexander Isak transfer clause
When Newcastle signed Isak from Real Sociedad in 2022 for £63m, the Spanish club cleverly included a 10% sell-on clause.
That means Sociedad get a cut of any profit if Isak leaves. For example, a £150m deal would see nearly £9m head straight to Spain.
That complicates Liverpool’s task. The Magpies are unlikely to budge on their valuation, knowing they lose part of the fee elsewhere. In other words, Isak is worth even more to Newcastle than he looks on paper.
The club’s official response also showed no signs of softening. "We are clear in response that Alex remains under contract and that no commitment has ever been made by a club official that Alex can leave Newcastle United this summer," they said.
It leaves Liverpool facing a choice: pay up, wait it out, or walk away. For now, the ball is still firmly at Newcastle’s feet, and they don’t seem in any rush to pass it on.
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