Regarding Alexander Isak’s contract negotiations with Newcastle United, club sources maintain that everything is “business as usual”.
There have been rumors circulating for the past week that Isak has asked for a release clause in his contract, but Toon Insiders believe that negotiations with other celebrities are proceeding in the same manner. That was in fact the situation when a £100 million release clause was included to the five-year deal that was revealed last year during the negotiations with Bruno Guimaraes.
However, despite much discussion about the clause being activated by either Manchester City or Arsenal, neither of the major players agreed to the requested amount. Isak, who signed a £63 million contract to join Newcastle from Real Sociedad in 2022, is eager to accept an improved contract as a reward for his 36 goals thus far for the Magpies. His current contract expires in 2028.
And after two successive lackluster transfer windows, Newcastle executives are hoping to reach an agreement on a new deal with Isak in order to give a hint of intent and demonstrate some ambition to the rest of the Premier League. It was earlier this year that it was thought that getting Isak married was on the “to do list” of retiring directors Amanda Staveley and Mehrdad Ghodoussi. Now, the onus is on sporting director Paul Mitchell and CEO Darren Eales to complete the task in what would be a huge announcement.
It’s thought that Staveley stepped in during Joelinton’s talks last year after they broke down, forcing the Brazilian to commit following lengthy discussions. That was considered an easy victory at the time by supporters, and Isak’s deal is comparable.
Isak was fascinating. Chelsea made an enquiry for the Sweden striker last summer, but were informed that a “astronomical” cost would be required to entice him away from St James’ Park. Furthermore, it is acknowledged that any release terms in a new contract would be subject to extremely high demand.
