Hidden Alexander Isak transfer clause that could complicate Liverpool move further
Newcastle's Alexander Isak has broken his silence as his Liverpool transfer saga continues. Though a clause in the 25-year-old's contract concerning former club Real Sociedad could throw yet another spanner into the works.
The Swedish striker made it clear last month that he wanted to explore his options away from St James' Park, and while the Reds did submit a £110million bid, this fell well below Newcastle's valuation. A stalemate has since been met, with Isak refusing to play for the club, and the Magpies insisting he is not for sale and will remain on Tyneside unless an adequate offer is made.
On Tuesday, Isak spoke for the first time since the drama unfolded, explaining his absence from the Professional Footballers' Association's awards gala. Newcastle issued a telling reply, as the possibility of an agreement with Liverpool remains up in the air, though a sell-on clause inserted into the 25-year-old's contract could further complicate matters.
Isak's statement was damning. In light of this increasingly noxious disagreement, the star striker, who has been training away from Newcastle's first team, claimed promises had been broken.
"I've kept quiet for a long time while others have spoken," wrote Isak. "That silence has allowed people to push their own version of events, even though they know it doesn't reflect what was really said and agreed behind closed doors.
"The reality is that promises were made and the club has known my position for a long time. To now act as if these issues are only emerging is misleading.
"When promises are broken and trust is lost, the relationship can't continue. That's where things are for me right now - and why change is in the best interests of everyone, not just myself."
Yet, a deal for Isak would be complicated. The Reds' £110m package was swiftly rebuked, and it is thought that Isak is valued at a whopping £150m. Nevertheless, it seems a British record transfer fee is what it would take to secure his services.
Adding further complications is a sell-on clause that was inserted in Isak's deal when he moved to Newcastle from Real Sociedad in 2022. The Swede arrived in England for a fee of £63m, and a 10 per cent capital gains clause was attached to his deal, as per the Athletic.
This clause would see the Spanish side receive that percentage of any profits made from the future sale of Isak. Should he be sold for £150m, for example, this would see a sum of £8.7m go to Spain.
Such a stipulation could cause Newcastle to demand an even higher price for Isak, and Liverpool could have to pay extra to ensure the Magpies receive a final sum they are satisfied with. As their reply to Isak's statement suggests, Newcastle themselves do not see a deal being completed this window.
It read: "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.
"As explained to Alex and his representatives, we must always take into consideration the best interests of Newcastle United, the team and our supporters in all decisions and we have been clear that the conditions of a sale this summer have not transpired.
"We do not foresee those conditions being met. 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 team-mates."
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