Alexander Isak has expressed a desire to explore options away from Newcastle and Alan Shearer admits his exit is likely – but maintained the club would move on
Newcastle legend Alan Shearer admits it “sounds like Alexander Isak is going to leave” but maintained that “no individual is bigger than the club”.
The Swede, who has been at St James’ Park for three years, has told the Magpies that he wants to explore his options relating to a move away from the club. Isak is yet to sign a new and improved deal, but does have three years to run on his current contract.
Newcastle have maintained that Isak is not for sale whilst they value him at well over £100million. The ex-Real Sociedad star has excelled since moving to England and has marked himself out to be one of Europe’s elite No 9s. Despite having lofty ambitions Newcastle are not among Europe’s elite sides, but have returned to the Champions League and landed a trophy.
Shearer fears Isak is more likely to leave than stay, but hopes Eddie Howe can convince the 25-year-old to remain committed to the project at Newcastle.
Liverpool have emerged as the striker’s most likely destination with the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea pursuing other targets. Newcastle claimed that Isak’s pre-season absence is injury-related, which Shearer laughed off, but he insisted the club will survive and move on.
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He told Betfair: “It’s ridiculous what Newcastle put out this morning to say he wasn’t on the trip because of a slight thigh injury. If they thought people wouldn’t see through that… it was disappointing. They should’ve just told the truth straight away. I understand it’s a very difficult situation for them but it is what it is.
“Eddie Howe has to use all his persuasive powers to do what he can and try to make him stay at least one more year. If that can’t happen then it is what it is. You have to get the very best deal for the football club and if someone is prepared to pay north of £150million, and if he really, really wants to go, you can’t step in his way.
“Isak has been brilliant for Newcastle, helped us achieve our dream of winning a trophy and if there’s no way whatsoever that he can be persuaded to stay at Newcastle, then they have to get the best deal possible and if someone’s prepared to pay what they want, you have to say thank you and build for the future. There’s no individual bigger than the football club.”
Newcastle have been able to keep hold of their major stars since their Saudi owners took over. However the possible departure of Isak, who scored 27 times last term, would be a blow to the club. They have reportedly eyed Benjamin Sesko as a possible replacement for the Swede.
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