Alexander Isak's Mystery Amid Saudi Arabian Rumors

Love alone is not enough. That phrase seems fitting to describe the current situation of Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak. Isak has repeatedly expressed his affection for the club, yet all of that has not been able to make the star fully commit to Newcastle.

The uncertainty surrounding Isak's future arose during Newcastle's preseason match at Celtic Park Stadium, Glasgow, Scotland, on Saturday (19/7/2025). Isak was not included in the squad to face the host team, Celtic. He was even sent back from Glasgow before the match.

"That is my decision. He traveled with us to Glasgow, but I decided to send him home due to the speculation surrounding the transfer. Regardless of that, I still believe he will be a Newcastle player by the end of the transfer window," said Newcastle coach Eddie Howe.

The situation felt quite odd. Isak was sent home after rumors of his move to Liverpool had subsided. A few days earlier, according to The Athletic, Liverpool had inquired with Newcastle about a possible transfer for the striker. The negotiations were rejected.

Just a day later, Liverpool immediately shifted their target to the talented striker from Eintracht Frankfurt, Hugo Ekitike. Both clubs reached an agreement on Monday (21/7/2025), valued at 69 million pounds with a potential additional 10 million pounds based on the achievements of the club and the player. This means that Isak's future is likely not connected to Liverpool.

Since the summer transfer window opened, it has almost exclusively been Liverpool and Arsenal that have been linked with the Swedish national team striker. Meanwhile, Arsenal is in the final stages of formalizing the transfer of Sporting CP forward, Viktor Gyokeres.

Interestingly, the rumors surrounding Isak were further fueled by a statement from his agent. "We are studying and analyzing all options, and we are likely close to deciding the player's next move," Gonzalo Gaitan told Saudi Arabian media outlet Arriyadiyah.

The biggest obstacle for clubs wanting to acquire Isak is money. He is tagged with a price ranging from 120 to 150 million pounds. This value is very much in line with Isak's quality, but it is less realistic as it could disrupt the financial stability of the purchasing club.

Speaking of exorbitant prices, rumors have pointed to Saudi Arabian clubs. Only they can afford to bring in players at such exorbitant prices. Sure enough, according to L'Equipe, Al-Hilal have entered negotiations to sign Isak in recent days.

The next question arises: will Isak sacrifice the peak of his career by moving to Saudi Arabia? As is known, he is one of the brightest strikers in the English League after scoring 44 goals in two seasons. He is also only 25 years old, which is still considered young.

The rumors of a transfer are becoming increasingly implausible due to Isak's principles thus far. He is known as a highly ambitious individual striving for achievement. In fact, according to many local media outlets in England, Isak will only consider a move if Newcastle fails to qualify for the Champions League next season.

Isak is very eager to play in the Champions League, the most prestigious club competition in the world. He has only played in the tournament six times. Meanwhile, the rumors regarding his transfer had subsided at the end of last season as Newcastle successfully qualified for the Champions League.

Howe left the decision to the tall striker. He could only support whatever choice Isak makes in the future. "I had a discussion with him, but there was nothing special about it. I respect the careers of footballers and how brief they are," he said.

Isak often expresses his love for the club, as well as for the people and the city of Newcastle, in interviews. He even promised to give more to Newcastle after winning the League Cup last March. This was the first trophy for Newcastle since 1969.

"I have high ambitions. I am trying to create my own history at Newcastle. I am pleased with what I have accomplished so far, but I always look ahead. I really enjoy football and where I am in my career right now," said Isak.

Newcastle is not obligated to sell Isak. The player is still under contract until the summer of 2028. However, they could potentially lose a significant amount of revenue if they pass up the offer, especially if it comes from Saudi Arabia. That money could be used to reinvest in new players.

A similar pragmatic view regarding money may also be a consideration for Isak if he has to move to the Middle East. Ultimately, modern football is about industry.

Money is often king. Before Isak, many great players have followed a similar path. (AP/AFP)