‘Newcastle facing squad unrest amid Alexander Isak contract row’
Newcastle United are desperately vying to secure star striker Alexander Isak’s long-term future in the North East.
After scoring 23 goals in 34 Premier League appearances last season, Isak has attracted strong interest from Liverpool.
But sources have told Football Insider that Liverpool are now unlikely to sign Isak as they close in on a deal for former Newcastle transfer target Hugo Ekitike.
Ekitike notched 22 goals and 12 assists in 48 appearances across all competitions for Frankfurt last term and could thrive in the Premier League for the Reds.
Newcastle stars tipped to demand wage increases amid Isak negotiations
While Isak is now unlikely to join Liverpool this summer, Newcastle are facing an uphill battle to keep him at St James’ Park for the remainder of his contract, amid such high-profile interest.
The Sweden international’s current deal with the Magpies expires in 2028, but a longer-term contract will be required to stave off transfer advances.
Reporting via Chronicle Live‘s Q&A [23 July], Lee Ryder warned: “Newcastle have done well to get to this stage without breaking through the wage ceiling.
“Top earners command around £150k per week, so I genuinely would be surprised if Newcastle double Isak’s weekly pay packet.
“I think taking it to around £200k would be a reasonable effort, but the danger that follows is that Bruno Guimaraes, Anthony Gordon, Joelinton, and others may want the same.”
Isak will snub long-term deal at St James‘ Park
Football Insider verdict
While Isak’s attacking brilliance has been largely responsible for Newcastle winning silverware and boasting Champions League status, concerns that his Magpies teammates could demand similar wages are valid.
| Alexander Isak stats | All competitions 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 42 |
| Goals | 27 |
| Assists | 6 |
Eddie Howe will desperately want to avoid a situation whereby fellow star players like Gordon and Joelinton become disgruntled in the North East.
However, amid advances for his services from Liverpool, Isak appears unlikely to commit his future to the St James’ Park outfit beyond his current contract.
Even though the Sweden star has won the Carabao Cup with the Magpies, moving to Merseyside would see him battling to win more prestigious trophies, such as the Champions League.
Liverpool’s move for Ekitike will likely mean that the North West giants don’t acquire Isak this summer, but the former Real Sociedad man can still move to Anfield and excel in the future.
Meanwhile, Newcastle remain interested in Yoane Wissa, as Howe vies to add attackers who can play alongside the Swede next term.