Alexander Isak has been at Newcastle since 2022

Isak Transfer Saga: What’s Next for Newcastle’s Star Striker?

As the 2025-26 Premier League season nears, uncertainty around Alexander Isak’s future at Newcastle United has cast a shadow over the club’s preparations.

Despite scoring more than 20 Premier League goals in each of the last two campaigns, the Swedish striker is currently training alone at former club Real Sociedad, while his teammates tour Asia. Though Newcastle insist he’s only recovering from a “minor thigh injury,” the reality seems far more complex.

‘Relationship Damaged’ – From Hero to Uncertain Future

Isak joined Newcastle for £60m in 2022, calling it a project he believed in. That belief bore fruit:

Champions League qualification (2022-23)
League Cup winner (2024)
50 Premier League goals in just three seasons

Only Erling Haaland (84) and Mohamed Salah (65) have scored more in that span. Isak even outperformed his expected goals (xG), netting 44 goals from an xG of 40.7.

“Isak is Newcastle’s best striker since Alan Shearer,” said BBC’s Matthew Raisbeck.

“But that relationship has been damaged.”

Newcastle Fans Left Frustrated

After a historic season where Newcastle lifted their first trophy in 70 years, many fans hoped to build, not rebuild.

“It was meant to be a transformative summer. Now it feels like a nightmare,” said True Faith podcaster Lee Johnson.

Even former defender Steve Howey criticized the situation:

“He’s adored, well-paid, and at a club in the Champions League. Why would you leave now?”

Liverpool Bid Rejected – But the Door Remains Open

On 1 August, Newcastle rejected a £110m bid from Liverpool, holding out for around £150m.

While Liverpool have already spent £265m this window, signing Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong, and others, they view Isak as the final piece in their attack.

“If Isak is available and we can afford him, we must go for it,” said Liverpool fan Simon.

“That’s how champions build dynasties.”

But not all supporters agree:

“We don’t need another forward. We need a centre-back,” said Michael.

“This is just greedy,” added Callum.

What Happens if Isak Stays?

Despite fan frustration, Newcastle may still keep their talisman. Manager Eddie Howe remains hopeful:

“He’s contracted to us. My wish is he stays.”

Still, Newcastle’s lack of signings — with only Anthony Elanga arriving — combined with PSR constraints and the absence of a director of football has made the window a challenge.

Losing Isak late in the window without a replacement would be “catastrophic,” warns Charlotte Robson of True Faith:

“You don’t go into the Champions League without a striker.”

Newcastle’s Contingency Plans

Should Isak leave, Newcastle have their eyes on:

Yoane Wissa (Brentford) – 19 Premier League goals last season
Benjamin Sesko (RB Leipzig) – 21 goals across all competitions

Both are talented, but replicating Isak’s influence would be no easy feat.

Verdict: Stay or Go, Isak Defines Newcastle’s Season

Whether Isak stays and leads Newcastle into Europe or leaves for Liverpool’s title chase, his fate will likely define both clubs’ trajectories.

“With Eddie Howe in charge and outstanding players around, anything is possible,” added Raisbeck.

But one thing is clear: Newcastle United cannot afford to misplay this saga.