A 'damaged relationship' but chance to add 'depth'

BBC News

01-08-2025

Alexander Isak is Newcastle's best striker since Alan Shearer.He is the player who scored the decisive goal at Wembley - one of many special moments in black and white - and he was worshipped on Tyneside.But that relationship has been damaged.There is an acceptance Newcastle need to become better at selling players.It's something former sporting director Paul Mitchell alluded to last year to when he described their transfer strategy prior to his arrival as "not fit for purpose".It is the first time since the takeover in October 2021 another club has come for one of their big names.Many fans are worried about the impact on the dressing room and fear others will see a move away from St James' Park as the best thing for their careers.The ownership have invested hundreds of millions of pounds in Newcastle over the last four years and the message is that they remain committed to taking the club to the top.The Isak money, should they sell, will boost their PSR position and hopefully enable them to add more depth and quality to their squad - something they have really struggled to do in this transfer window.It has certainly been a tough few months.But, they were in a difficult place 12 months ago with PSR pressures, changes at executive level, and speculation about the manager's future. What followed was the most successful season the club has had.With Eddie Howe in charge and some outstanding players in his squad, anything is possible.Read more from Matthew Raisbeck and fans hereAnd subscribe to the Total Sport Newcastle United Podcast on BBC Sounds