Liverpool Pursuit of Alexander Isak Divides Newcastle Icons

Carroll Questions Isak’s Loyalty

Liverpool’s pursuit of Alexander Isak has created tension not only in Newcastle but also among the club’s former players. Andy Carroll, once the figurehead of a high-profile transfer between the two clubs, has publicly criticised Isak’s approach in attempting to engineer a move to Anfield.

Carroll, who made a £35 million move from Newcastle to Liverpool in 2011, reflected on the difficulty of leaving his boyhood side and drew a sharp contrast with the Swedish forward.

“Being from Newcastle, I didn’t really want to leave. Didn’t want to go. I wanted to stay. And it was tough when I did go,” Carroll told Sky Sports.

“But Isak’s not from Newcastle so he can act like he’s acting now and think it’s acceptable. It’s a big move for him. The way he’s playing his cards at the minute, the Newcastle fans are not going to back him, he’s not going to help himself and it’s a shame because he’s such a good player and every Newcastle fan wants him to stay, the manager wants him to stay. It’s not really the same as me because it’s not his club. The Geordies took him in and made him one of their own but when he wants to go, that’s his mind changed.”

Carroll’s words have struck a chord with supporters who now fear Isak’s relationship with the St James’ Park faithful may already be broken beyond repair.

Liverpool’s Ambition Tested by Newcastle’s Valuation

Liverpool have already seen one bid for Isak rejected, with their £110 million offer failing to meet Newcastle’s valuation of closer to £150 million. The striker’s desire to leave has only intensified speculation, but the Magpies remain firm in their stance.

Arne Slot, fresh from guiding Liverpool to the Premier League title in his debut season, views Isak as a potential statement signing. His presence would reshape the attack after the tragic loss of Diogo Jota earlier this summer, and the Swedish international’s profile suits Slot’s tactical demands.

Newcastle, however, are conscious of the message selling their star striker would send after years of rebuilding under Eddie Howe. The stalemate has left both clubs waiting on Isak’s next move, with Liverpool expected to return with an improved offer.

Howe Faces Growing Distraction

Eddie Howe has been forced to navigate a difficult start to the campaign without his leading forward. Isak missed the Premier League opener at Aston Villa, citing a thigh problem, although he trained with former club Real Sociedad during pre-season rather than join Newcastle’s tour of Asia.

Howe was clear about the situation after the goalless draw at Villa Park.

“We do (have to forget about Isak) – he’s not here with us. We have to focus on who is here and get the best out of them. The players are aware he’s not here, the focus will be on each player playing to the best of their ability. I want him to play. I want him to train. I’ve had those conversations (with Isak) but the details of those will remain private. There is no change to the situation.”

Following the stalemate, Howe added: “The door is well and truly open. He has to decide what he wants to do. We would like a resolution. The ownership, the players, we need that clarity. I’m not in control of that, it’s one person really that can control that.”

Liverpool Fixture Looms Large

The timing of this saga adds another layer of intrigue. Newcastle host Liverpool on Monday, August 25, with Howe acknowledging the weight of the fixture.

“I think it’s always spicy against Liverpool, there’s a history with the fixture anyway. It’s been an unbelievable fixture over the years in the Premier League. So we look forward to it, we respect them, and we know how good they are. Hopefully, off the back of today, we are ready.”

As Newcastle brace themselves for a visit from the champions, Isak’s absence from the starting line-up would be as symbolic as it is tactical. For Liverpool, the contest offers a chance to showcase the depth of their ambition, perhaps even a stage to underline why Isak remains at the centre of their transfer focus.