Simon Jordan believes Newcastle United are in a difficult position when it comes to securing Alexander Isak’s long-term future at the club.
While Isak is under contract at Newcastle until the summer of 2028, the terms of that agreement appear to be something of a sticking point.
Indeed, Newcastle are prepared to make Isak their highest-paid player, but even that may not be enough.
Isak wants £300k-per-week to sign a new deal, which feels like the only thing that would stop all the speculation over his future. Both Liverpool and Al Hilal have been credited with an interest in the player.
The striker is within his rights to demand a pay rise after such a brilliant time of things over the past two seasons. Still, agreeing to such demands could have a negative impact on the rest of the Newcastle United squad, as Jordan highlighted on Wednesday.
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Simon Jordan predicts how Newcastle United squad will react to Alexander Isak new contract
Jordan spoke of the knock-on effect Newcastle paying that kind of salary could have on Isak’s teammates.
Eddie Howe’s side are a successful outfit and while Isak is undoubtedly the star, it’s clearly a team effort.
With that in mind, it’d only be natural for other players in the squad to start demanding huge money if they are to commit their long-term future.
“I think that he is to Newcastle whatever they’re prepared to pay,” he said.
“There is a certain limitation to that. Because it isn’t just what you do for Isak, it’s what you then have to do with others as a result of Isak.”
He added: “There’s some big names in that dressing room as well. [Sandro] Tonali is no slouch. Neither is [Bruno] Guimaraes, neither is Joelinton and neither are a few of the other players there.”
Jordan then said: “Believe me in a dressing room, if someone else’s wages go up, there’s not a tacit acceptance: ‘Well he’s the star, so we shouldn’t get a pay rise’”.
As well as Alexander Isak, Newcastle United are in contract talks with another key player
Geordie Boot Boys have been told that Newcastle are also in contract talks with Bruno Guimaraes.
The Brazilian is open to extending his deal, which also expires in 2028 alongside Isak’s.
Transfer expert Graeme Bailey told the website that all parties are keen to remove the release clause in the midfielder’s contract, though he would require a pay rise for that to happen.
“Newcastle are keen to do a new deal for Bruno, his current one had that release inserted and they are keen for that to be taken out,” he said.
“Bruno and his team are seemingly willing, but a new deal is needed and another pay rise.
“As it stands a new deal is possible, although I believe a new deal for Alexander Isak is currently the main priority for the club.”
Talks with Isak over improved terms, however, are thought to remain the club’s priority.
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