The Alexander Isak transfer situation is developing on an almost hour-by-hour basis, with the Newcastle United striker jetting to Spain in order to seal a move.
Isak has told Newcastle that he wants to explore other options, and with a move to Saudi Arabia rubbished, it is becoming increasingly clear that he wants to become the latest player to move to Liverpool in a big-money summer deal.
The Reds have been linked with a transfer worth €170 million for the 25-year-old Sweden star, who has taken matters into his own hands.
Isak was left out of Newcastle’s touring squad for the summer. Officially, this was because he was suffering from a thigh injury.
But the former Borussia Dortmund striker has now left England, according to Sky Sports. Isak has flown to Spain, where he was previously linked with a move to Barcelona. He is in the country now to train at Real Sociedad’s facilities.
Isak is not training with the LaLiga team but has instead been given access to their training ground to work individually when it is empty.
Real Sociedad stand to land a substantial sum of money if and when Isak leaves Newcastle.
The Basque side have a sell-on clause that entitles them to 10% of everything the Magpies earn over €70m. If Liverpool complete their €170m deal. On top of this, they will receive 2% of the entire transfer fee. In total, the San Sebastian outfit therefore stands to earn in the region of €13m from this move.
Eddie Howe on Isak situation
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has been inundated with questions over Isak’s position at the club, with the boss not writing the Swede off as sold yet.
Howe explained: “He is still our player. He’s contracted to us. We, to a degree, control what is next for him.
“I would love to believe all possibilities are still available to us. My wish is that he stays, but that’s not in my full control.
“We have not received a formal offer for Alex, from any club. My wish is that he stays and we see him playing again next year.”
Isak has an Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) of €116m and three years left on his Newcastle contract.
