(Credit: Imago)
(Credit: Imago)

‘All of a sudden…’ – Liverpool have 'got the upper hand' after Alexander Isak bombshell

James Murray

James holds a degree in Sports Journalism and Communications (MA) from the Real Madrid Graduate School. He has experience working for a number of local news outlets as well as the Sunday Mirror and Real Madrid TV. James is from Scunthorpe and has an affinity with Scunthorpe United, but is also a huge West Ham supporter and an expert on all things to do with the Hammers. He started working for Breaking Media in July 2023, initially writing on the Club Sites, where he specialised in West Ham content, before moving to Football Insider – where he is now an expert in football finance, speaking regularly with Stefan Borson and Keith Wyness to generate high-quality content in all things related to finance in the Premier League, Football League, and Scottish Premiership.

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Alexander Isak’s agent could be "getting worried” as he looks to force through a move from Newcastle United to Liverpool. 

Isak has his heart set on joining Liverpool after emerging as their top target ahead of the transfer window closing on 1 September. 

Arne Slot’s side have seen a bid worth £110million plus add-ons rejected for the 25-year-old striker, with Newcastle valuing him at around £150million. 

Football Insider revealed on 11 August Newcastle have no intention of selling Isak unless they can find a top-class replacement before the window closes. 

Isak is currently refusing to play for Eddie Howe’s side and wasn’t named in the squad for their goalless draw against Aston Villa on Saturday (16 August) following Liverpool’s interest. 

Alexander Isak in action for Newcastle United, next to a breakdown of his 24/25 stats
Alexander Isak's stats in the 2024-25 season (Credit: Imago)

Alexander Isak has 'thrown his toys out the pram' at Newcastle

This article contains exclusive comment from Keith Wyness, former Everton, Aston Villa, and Aberdeen CEO.

Isak released a shock statement about his Newcastle situation on Tuesday (19 August), insisting promises had been “broken” by the club and they had “lost” his trust. 

The Sweden international is under contract at St James’ Park until June 2028 after joining for £63million on a six-year deal from Real Sociedad in 2022. 

Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Wyness said: “I don't think anybody's got the upper hand right now. 

“I think it's three parties here and nobody's got really the upper hand. I don't think Isak's got the upper hand. 

“We've seen so much player power now. We're talking about Wissa and Brentford, Isak and Newcastle. 

“It's been the window of players really throwing their toys out of the pram. We're seeing Newcastle with a weakened position as well. 

“I wonder if Isak and his agent are getting a little bit worried that Liverpool are going to leave them high and dry. 

“You do get the feeling they've been promised ‘Don't worry, we're going to come in for you, don't worry’. 

“And then all of a sudden ‘Sorry, we couldn't quite come in for you’. 

“I don't think anybody's sleeping well at night of all three parties here. 

“I think Liverpool have got the upper hand if they decide to spend the money. I think that's the case.” 

Alexander Isak in Newcastle training jacket at St James' Park
Alexander Isak is refusing to play for Newcastle (Credit: Imago)

Liverpool plan to accept Kostas Tsimikas offer

In terms of a potential exit at Anfield, recruitment expert Mick Brown told Football Insider Liverpool are planning to sell Kostas Tsimikas before the end of the transfer window. 

Slot made a clear statement about the 29-year-old’s position in the team after he was left out of the squad for the Community Shield and the opening-day victory over Bournemouth. 

It comes after Liverpool have signed Milos Kerkez to rival Andy Robertson for the left-back spot at Anfield. 

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