Liverpool transfer target Alexander Isak is reportedly willing to sign a fresh contract with Newcastle United but this may play into the hands of those clubs wishing to sign him.
This season, Mohamed Salah has stolen all the headlines as his flawless attacking displays continue to drive Liverpool further and further away from Arsenal in the Premier League title race.
His 25 goals and 17 assists in the league are threatening some massive records right now.
Yet, as incredible as Mo is, many supporters have attached themselves (myself included) to the idea of seeing him playing alongside a world-class centre-forward like Isak.
Since his days with Edin Dzeko at AS Roma, the Egyptian has never played with a top class centre-forward. For avoidance, of doubt, I’m glossing over Roberto Firmino because he was a false nine and not a traditional no.9.
To see Salah play with a world-class striker at Anfield would be special but if it’s going to be Isak, it’s going to be very expensive. Initial claims suggest that Newcastle will demand as much as £150million to sell him this summer.
However, if he signs a new deal, it’s certain that a potential release clause will be a lot lower than that.
Isak willing to sign Newcastle contract – but only if it includes a release clause
A report from Football Transfers claims: “Alexander Isak would want a release clause as part of any new Newcastle contract.
“We are told that the Swede is generally open to signing a new deal at St. James’ Park, provided the terms include a release clause. He is settled in the Northeast of England and is not desperate to leave.
“However, Isak is aware that he has big-name suitors and would like to have his future in his own hands. Newcastle, meanwhile, would love to tie the 25-year-old down to a new long-term contract to fend off interest from his many admirers.”
Arsenal and Liverpool have been the most heavily linked out of Europe’s big hitters but the report goes on to dismiss rumours that there is a verbal agreement between Isak and Newcastle that would allow him to leave if they miss out on Champions League football this season.
The 25-year-old has 19 goals and five assists making him the third-highest contributor in the Premier League this season behind Mohamed Salah and Erling Haaland.
So, it will likely be a source of frustration that his side is still three points outside the Champions League qualification places in the top four.
