Newcastle 'disappointed' by Isak's exit remarks but open door for return

The Magpies expressed disappointment at the striker's comments but stressed that the 25-year-old remains under contract and will be welcomed back into the squad.

"We are disappointed to have been alerted to a social media post by Alexander Isak this evening," read the statement released late on Tuesday.

"We are clear in response that Alex remains under contract and that no commitment has ever been made by a club official that Alex can leave Newcastle United this summer.

"We want to keep our best players, but we also understand players have their own wishes, and we listen to their views. This is a proud football club with proud traditions and we strive to retain our family feel.

"Alex remains part of our family and will be welcomed back when he is ready to rejoin his teammates."

Since joining from Real Sociedad in 2022, Isak has scored 62 goals in 109 appearances, including the decisive strike against Liverpool in the League Cup final earlier this year that ended Newcastle’s 70-year wait for a domestic trophy.

Liverpool, heavily linked with the Swedish international, have already spent around £300 million rebuilding their squad after last season's title triumph, offset by more than £200 million in player sales.

The Reds are still seeking attacking reinforcements following the exits of Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez, alongside the tragic passing of Diogo Jota.