Alan Shearer Urges Newcastle United to Consider Alexander Isak’s Exit to Liverpool
Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer has voiced his thoughts on the potential departure of Alexander Isak, urging the club to accept the Swedish forward’s wishes if he desires a move to Liverpool. As the Premier League’s all-time leading goal scorer, Shearer understands the intricacies of football and believes it’s crucial for the Magpies to be prepared for the possibility of losing their talented striker.
Isak has made significant contributions to Newcastle at St James’ Park, but Shearer maintains that if the player’s heart is set on Anfield, the club should focus on securing the best possible transfer fee and moving forward without him. Shearer reflected on the situation, saying, "I’m not angry at all towards him. Do I like it? Do I understand it? Those are two different things. I know how football works."
The former England captain’s comments come as Liverpool intensifies its pursuit of Isak after an initial bid was rejected over the weekend. Shearer added, "If it really is impossible for Eddie [Howe] to convince him to stay and he expresses a desire to leave, then Newcastle should get their big money for him and move on."
He concluded his thoughts on "The Rest is Football" podcast, stating, "No individual is bigger than any football club. If he doesn’t want to be there, then fine—get what you can for him, thank him for the memories, and let him go."
Notably, Isak has been absent from Newcastle’s pre-season activities due to a reported thigh injury. Instead of joining his teammates for summer preparations, he has been focused on fitness training at Real Sociedad, his former club. His return to Newcastle’s training ground has sparked speculation about his future, with discussions expected between him and manager Eddie Howe.
Despite Liverpool’s initial offer being declined, the Merseyside club is reportedly preparing a renewed bid for Isak’s services. Shearer hinted that there may have been contact between Liverpool or the player’s representatives, although he anticipated such interest might arise next summer instead.
Newcastle’s transfer window has been particularly challenging, with the club struggling to secure attacking reinforcements. Players like Manchester City’s Liam Delap, Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, and former PSG forward Hugo Ekitike have all been linked with moves to Tyneside but ultimately chose other Premier League teams.
Additionally, goalkeeper James Trafford represented another missed opportunity for Newcastle, as Manchester City opted to bring their academy product back to the Etihad. Reflecting on these setbacks, Shearer candidly remarked, "So far, it’s been a disastrous transfer window for Newcastle."
As the situation unfolds, fans will be keenly watching how Newcastle navigates this pivotal moment in their season.