With just two weeks left in the summer transfer window, one of the Premier League’s final major sagas is coming to a head and the next 24 hours could prove decisive. Liverpool remain locked in talks to bring Alexander Isak to Anfield, but everything now hinges on Newcastle United’s ability to secure a replacement. Eddie Howe’s men are said to be chasing Brentford forward Yoane Wissa, although the Bees have dramatically increased their asking price.
At the start of the window, a £35m offer might have been enough to convince Brentford to part ways with their Congolese star. However, The Mail reports that his valuation has now climbed to at least £50m. That figure reflects Brentford’s reluctance to lose another attacking option after Ivan Toney’s suspension rocked their frontline last season. Still, Newcastle are believed to be pushing hard, knowing that the Wissa deal is pivotal to whether Isak stays or leaves. Paris Saint-Germain’s Gonçalo Ramos has also been mentioned as an alternative, but Newcastle’s recruitment team appear to have made Wissa their primary target.
The drama around Alexander Isak does not stop at transfer negotiations. The Swedish striker has yet to play a single minute this season, training alone at Benton while refusing to feature since the final day of the last campaign. Reports suggest Newcastle may fine him for refusing to play against Aston Villa, with the punishment potentially reaching a staggering £240,000 which equals two weeks’ wages. The irony, of course, is that Isak’s push for a bigger payday could end up costing him heavily. Manager Eddie Howe has remained tight-lipped, insisting: “Other people are dealing with that issue. I’m concentrating on the team and our next game.”
Club legend Alan Shearer did not hold back in his criticism of Isak during Match of the Day. Comparing the situation to Wayne Rooney’s past transfer request at Manchester United, Shearer blasted the Swede for refusing to play. He said: “You didn’t refuse to train, you didn’t refuse to play, so there is a way to do it and Alex is not going about it the right way at all.” He sympathized with Newcastle’s fans and teammates, who continue to give everything on the pitch, while accusing Isak of “taking liberties” despite being on over £100,000-a-week with three years left on his contract.
Despite the mounting tension, Howe insists the door is still open for Isak to mend fences. He said: “Nothing’s changed. The door is well and truly open but he has to decide what he wants to do. We would like a resolution… you don’t need any distractions.”
The big question now is whether Isak will swallow his pride and apologize or whether Newcastle will find a replacement in time to sanction his move to Liverpool. If Newcastle can land Wissa or another striker, Isak could finally get his desired move to Anfield. If not, the Swede may face the uncomfortable reality of remaining at St. James’ Park under strained circumstances. For now, Newcastle fans can only watch on, torn between wanting clarity and not wanting to lose one of their most talented forwards. One thing is certain: this saga is not over yet.