Former Newcastle United boss Graeme Souness has spoken out about the future of Alexander Isak.
It may have been an underwhelming summer transfer window in terms of new signings, but Newcastle managed to fend off interest in their best players.
Newcastle turned down huge money to keep hold of Alexander Isak in the summer amid interest from London duo Arsenal and Chelsea.
The Magpies were not willing to sell their £63m record signing at any cost on the back of a superb season where Isak scored 25 goals across all competitions.
However, Isak has made a slow start to the new season with only one goal in seven appearances this campaign and speculation about a move away has now returned.
READ MORE: What Alexander Isak’s agents could do in 2025 amid Newcastle contract uncertainty
What is the latest on Alexander Isak’s contract?
After agreeing a new deal with Anthony Gordon this season, Newcastle chiefs made a new deal for Isak a priority.
It was reported that Isak is keen to sign a new contract and stay on Tyneside, but the start striker wants a release clause in his Newcastle deal.
His current deal runs until 2028 so Newcastle are not under huge pressure to agree terms quickly, but a new contract would help to end speculation around a summer exit.
It seems a release clause is not the only demand that he is making – Isak wants European qualification to sign a new deal and he also wants to become Newcastle’s highest earner.
There are a lot of boxes that need to be ticked before Isak seems happy to extend his stay.
Graeme Souness makes Alexander Isak transfer claim
As long as Isak’s contract saga continues, there will be plenty of speculation about whether he will leave the club this summer.
Former Newcastle boss Graeme Souness has now had his say and suggested that the Magpies may want to cash in on Isak this summer.
Via the Daily Mail, Souness said: “I listened to Eddie Howe’s press conference on Friday and he might be fighting an uphill battle to keep Alexander Isak beyond this season if Newcastle do not qualify for the Champions League.
“His value to the club is still there next summer because he will still have three years on his contract. He is 25 years old and approaching his peak. He will fancy himself as a Champions League regular, even though he didn’t look like that when missing chances in the 1-0 defeat by Brighton last week.
“Newcastle fans won’t want to hear this, but it could make sense for Newcastle to cash in while his value is at a premium, especially given the difficulties they have encountered with PSR.”
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