Former Liverpool Star Hits Out on Social Media over Alexander Isak Saga | OneFootball

Liverpool Continue Isak Push as Wijnaldum Distances Himself

Liverpool’s pursuit of Alexander Isak remains the story dominating the final days of the transfer window. The Swedish striker, one of the Premier League’s standout performers over the past two seasons, has effectively withdrawn from Newcastle United duties amid frustration over what he perceives as broken promises.

Isak has not been training or featuring in matches, signalling his determination to leave St James’ Park. Liverpool see him as their priority target to strengthen Arne Slot’s squad, but the move is hanging in the balance. Time is short, and tensions between the two clubs have complicated matters further.

Photo: IMAGO

Frustration Between Liverpool and Newcastle

Reports suggest Newcastle are unhappy with Liverpool’s perceived approach to the player before submitting a bid below their valuation. The relationship between the clubs has suffered, making negotiations even more complex.

It is a striking contrast to 2016, when Gini Wijnaldum moved from Tyneside to Anfield with relative ease following Newcastle’s relegation. Wijnaldum was a key figure for the Magpies at the time, finishing as their top scorer in an otherwise disappointing campaign.

“When the previous season ended, I said that I wouldn’t force a move,” Wijnaldum commented in 2016, which resurfaced this week by ESPN UK. “When Liverpool came in for me, I made up my mind that I wanted to come here, but I wasn’t going to force it because I appreciated what Newcastle and their fans did for me.”

Wijnaldum Responds to Online Speculation

Those words were interpreted by many as a dig at Isak’s behaviour, given the striker’s current stand-off with Newcastle. ESPN’s post even featured an emoji hinting at the connection. However, Wijnaldum himself quickly intervened to set the record straight.

“This is something I said almost 10 years ago before my move to Liverpool,” he wrote in the comments. “Why do you post it like it’s my opinion about Isak [and] his decision? This is something between Isak and Newcastle/Liverpool please keep me out of it. Thank you.”

Photo: IMAGO

His response underlined his reluctance to become embroiled in a transfer saga that has already drawn heavy criticism towards Isak.

Isak Remains Under Intense Scrutiny

The 25-year-old has been cast as the villain in some quarters, accused of forcing a move by stepping away from training. Yet, as Eddie Howe admitted last week, discussions about the player’s future had already taken place.

“Me and Alex had conversations towards the end of the season,” said Howe. “Yes, I am not going to sit here and deny that. Yes, we had discussions about his future.”

Photo IMAGO

Despite this admission, the narrative around Isak remains harsh. For Liverpool, the challenge is clear: either reach an agreement for a player who could transform their attack or prepare for life without him. The next few days will determine whether Anfield welcomes a record signing or whether this saga stretches into January.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool fans, the need for another top-tier forward is undeniable, and Alexander Isak fits the bill perfectly. His movement, technical quality and ability to play across the front line make him an ideal addition for Arne Slot’s system. Supporters will hope the club finds a way to complete the deal, even if it requires a British record fee.

Gini Wijnaldum’s intervention feels entirely justified. ESPN’s post appeared to stir unnecessary comparisons between two completely different scenarios. Wijnaldum’s move followed relegation, whereas Isak is negotiating from a position of strength after back-to-back outstanding seasons.

Ultimately, this deal will define Liverpool’s summer. Missing out on Isak now could leave the attack slightly thin, particularly given the club’s ambition to compete on all fronts. Fans will want to see the same ruthless decisiveness in recruitment that brought trophies back to Anfield last season.