Former Newcastle United manager Graeme Souness has suggested that the club might consider “cashing in” on striker Alexander Isak if they fail to secure a place in the Champions League this season. Souness believes that Isak’s value is currently high and that the player could potentially push for a transfer if the team does not achieve its goals.
Last season, Isak played a pivotal role in helping Newcastle secure a seventh-place finish, despite facing injury setbacks. He demonstrated his scoring prowess by netting 21 goals in just 30 league appearances, establishing himself as one of the most effective forwards in Europe.
While Isak has had a somewhat inconsistent start to the current season, Souness argues that he is aiming to be a regular in the Champions League. This ambition could make it an opportune moment for Newcastle to consider a sale, particularly if they miss out on a top-four finish. Souness acknowledged Isak’s exceptional talent, stating that he possesses the quality necessary for Champions League competition, but also noted that it would be unwise to actively seek to sell a player of his caliber, especially given the challenges in replacing him.
Souness remarked on Eddie Howe’s recent press conference, indicating that retaining Isak could become a challenge if the club fails to qualify for the prestigious tournament. He pointed out that, with three years remaining on Isak’s contract, his market value will still be significant next summer, particularly as he approaches the peak of his career at 25 years old. Despite a missed opportunity in a recent match against Brighton, Souness emphasized that Isak’s desire to play at the highest level could influence his future decisions.
While Souness’s assessment may hold some merit—recognizing Isak’s ambitions and the potential implications for Newcastle—it is somewhat unusual to suggest that the club should consider selling a world-class striker. Although financial regulations such as Profitability and Sustainability Regulations (PSR) pose challenges, Newcastle management has expressed a commitment to retaining their top talent rather than looking to offload them.
Isak’s contract situation offers Newcastle some protection, and recent discussions suggest the club is not in a hurry to alter his current deal despite rumors of a possible renegotiation. In addressing Isak’s status, Howe stated, “Alex has a long contract, and we have to be really careful with our spending regarding PSR. I don’t see a short-term issue with his contract. Right now, Alex needs to concentrate on his football. We value him highly and want him to remain part of our plans.”
In conclusion, while Souness raises valid points about Isak’s potential aspirations and the club’s circumstances, Newcastle appears committed to keeping their star striker for the foreseeable future, especially as they navigate both competitive and financial landscapes.