‘Shocking Behaviour’ – Ian Wright Criticises Alexander Isak as Newcastle Striker Pushes for £150m Liverpool Transfer

Why the Swedish Star’s Standoff Could Be the Premier League’s Biggest Saga of the Summer

The Premier League loves a transfer saga, but few have developed as much drama in such a short space of time as Alexander Isak’s push for a move to Liverpool. What began as a rumour linking the Newcastle United striker to Anfield has now spiralled into a public standoff — and has drawn sharp criticism from none other than Arsenal legend Ian Wright, who has labelled the 25-year-old’s conduct as “shocking behaviour.”

What Happened?

Isak, fresh from a stellar 2024-25 season where he netted 27 goals in all competitions, has reportedly informed Newcastle United that he no longer wishes to play for the club. The reason? His preference for joining Liverpool, who see him as a marquee signing to spearhead their next phase under Arne Slot.

Liverpool’s opening bid of £110 million ($149m) was turned down by Newcastle, who remain adamant that their talisman is not for sale. The Magpies have reportedly slapped a £150m price tag on the Swedish international, and there’s no indication yet that they are willing to budge.

But Isak’s stance has added fuel to the fire. Refusing to make himself available for selection ahead of Newcastle’s opening Premier League fixture against Aston Villa, the forward is clearly forcing the issue — and it’s rubbing some footballing icons the wrong way.

What Ian Wright Said

Speaking on The Overlap’s Stick to Football Podcast, Ian Wright did not mince his words.

“It doesn’t look good. The behaviour? It’s kind of shocking. It’s shocking behaviour. I don’t know what’s happened with his agent, I don’t know if his agent hasn’t done the job properly – I don’t know what it is and if Liverpool were going to get him, go and pay the £150million.”

Wright, who scored an incredible 185 goals in 288 appearances for Arsenal, is no stranger to high-pressure transfer environments. But his concern here seems to be more about player professionalism than negotiation tactics. The implication is clear: if a player wants a move, there are ways to go about it — and downing tools isn’t one of them.

Nottingham Forest v Manchester City – Emirates FA Cup Semi Final

The Bigger Picture – Why This Transfer Matters

For Newcastle, losing Isak would be a serious blow to their ambitions. The Swedish striker has been nothing short of electric since arriving from Real Sociedad, combining pace, technical finesse, and lethal finishing to become one of the league’s most feared forwards.

For Liverpool, the move would represent a statement signing — not just replacing goals but signalling their intent to challenge Manchester City’s dominance. Isak’s ability to stretch defences, link up with creative midfielders, and convert under pressure fits the bill perfectly for a club looking to refresh its attacking options.

But the stakes go beyond just the player. This is also about Newcastle’s ownership making a stand: if they sell their star striker under pressure, they risk sending a message to the rest of the league that they can be bullied into deals.

Did You Know? – Newcastle’s Failed Replacement Hunt

Newcastle’s summer has already been frustrating in the striker department. The club made several moves in anticipation of bolstering their attack — potentially as contingency for losing Isak — but came up short each time.

• A move for Liam Delap was thwarted as the youngster joined Chelsea.

• An approach for Joao Pedro ended with the player signing for Brighton.

• A £25m bid for Yoane Wissa was rejected by Brentford.

With those avenues closed, Newcastle face the daunting prospect of starting the season without their top scorer and without a proven replacement.

Liverpool’s Perspective – Patience or Push?

From Liverpool’s point of view, this is a delicate balancing act. Overpaying for a player, even one as talented as Isak, could create future market challenges. But missing out could mean going into the season without the elite striker they’ve identified as a priority.

The Reds are no strangers to waiting for their man — the Virgil van Dijk transfer saga springs to mind — but they also know the value of striking while the iron is hot. With Isak reportedly keen to join, the temptation to return with a higher bid will be strong.

Isak’s Conduct – Dividing Opinion

Football history is littered with examples of players forcing moves: from Dimitar Berbatov’s infamous deadline-day standoff to Luis Suárez’s attempt to swap Liverpool for Arsenal. In most cases, the player eventually got their move, but not without damaging relationships.

Some fans sympathise with Isak, pointing out that players have short careers and should seize opportunities at top clubs. Others, like Wright, argue that professionalism should come first — and that refusing to play undermines both the team and the player’s reputation.

What’s Next for Isak, Liverpool, and Newcastle?

Alexander Isak Liverpool Newcastle 2025

• Liverpool: Open their Premier League campaign at home to Bournemouth on Friday. The Isak saga could continue to overshadow preparations, with fans eager for transfer updates.

• Newcastle: Travel to Aston Villa for their season opener, likely without their star striker. Eddie Howe faces the dual challenge of managing the squad’s morale and finding goals from elsewhere.

• Isak: His immediate future remains uncertain. If Liverpool meet the £150m asking price, the move could happen quickly. If not, the stand-off risks dragging into the final days of the window.

Final Thoughts – A Saga With No Easy Ending

Transfer sagas like this rarely have neat, tidy resolutions. If Isak gets his move, Newcastle fans will feel betrayed and frustrated at losing their star just as they look to consolidate their position in the Premier League elite. If he stays, repairing the relationship between player, club, and supporters will be a major challenge.

For Liverpool, landing Isak would be a coup — but the price tag, both financially and in terms of the message it sends to future targets, will be a factor.

As for Ian Wright’s “shocking behaviour” comment, it’s a reminder that in football, how a player handles themselves off the pitch can be just as important as what they deliver on it. Isak’s goals have never been in question; it’s now his judgment and approach that are under the microscope.