Newcastle legend Alan Shearer has accused striker Alexander Isak of pouring “flames on the fire” in his ongoing row with the club after the player publicly claimed Newcastle broke promises made to him.
The Sweden international, who finished as the Premier League’s second-highest scorer last season, has not featured in pre-season or Newcastle’s opening-day stalemate at Aston Villa.
Reports confirm that Liverpool’s £110 million bid for the 25-year-old was rejected, with Newcastle demanding close to £150 million — a potential British transfer record.
Isak further intensified the saga after releasing a statement on Tuesday, choosing not to attend the PFA awards despite being named in the Premier League Team of the Year.
“Promises were made, and the club has known my position for a long time,” said Isak. “When promises are broken and trust is lost, the relationship can’t continue.”
🔹 Shearer Blasts Isak’s Agent
Reacting to the statement, Shearer called the situation an “absolute mess”, blaming Isak’s agent, Vlado Lemic, for poor advice.
“If I was him, I’d sack my agent immediately,” Shearer told Betfair. “He signed a six-year deal with no get-out clause. To believe someone just saying, ‘Oh, you can leave at the end of the season’ — it’s ridiculous.”
🔹 “Wrong Way” Approach
While acknowledging there are two sides to the story, Shearer stressed that Isak made things worse:
“I just think even releasing this statement last night has thrown flames onto the fire, which he didn’t need to do. It doesn’t benefit anyone.”
🔹 Newcastle’s Response
In a swift response, Newcastle said they were “saddened” by Isak’s words but insisted no promises had been made.
“No commitment has ever been made by a club official that Alex can leave Newcastle United this summer,” the statement read. “We want to keep our best players. Alex remains part of our family and will be welcomed back when ready.”
Since joining from Real Sociedad in 2022, Isak has scored 62 goals in 109 games, including the decisive goal against Liverpool in the League Cup final that ended Newcastle’s 70-year domestic trophy drought.
🔹 Liverpool’s Transfer Hunt
Liverpool, who won the Premier League last season, have already spent around £300m this summer while recouping £200m in sales. With Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez departing and the tragic passing of Diogo Jota, they remain in search of attacking reinforcements.
Any potential deal for Isak is unlikely to be completed before Newcastle host Liverpool at St James’ Park on Monday.
