Newcastle United released a blunt and cold statement confirming Alexander Isak’s stunning £125m move to Liverpool.
Isak went on strike to force through his dream move to Anfield, leaving Newcastle furious by his conduct during the transfer window.
The 25-year-old was loved by fans at St James’ Park having helped Eddie Howe’s side win the Carabao Cup last season and qualify for the Champions League.
Isak left it late in the summer transfer window to push for a move and then refused to play for Newcastle, citing ‘broken promises’ as the reason he wanted out.
A banner placed outside St James’ Park on deadline day branded Isak a ‘rat’ and the club made their feelings clear with the briefest statement confirming his departure.
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Clubs invariably thank players for their service but there was no gratitude in Newcastle’s two-sentence statement.
It read: ‘We can can announce the sale of striker Alexander Isak to Liverpool for a significant British record transfer fee.
‘The Sweden international joined the Magpies from Real Sociedad in 2022 and made 109 appearances in all competitions.’
Isak joined Newcastle in a £63m move from Real Sociedad in 2022 and scored 62 goals in 109 appearances for the Magpies.
He becomes big-spending Liverpool’s final summer signing and will bolster a squad hoping to defend the Premier League title under Arne Slot.
‘I feel amazing,’ Isak, who will wear the No. 9 shirt at Anfield, told Liverpool’s official website.
‘It’s been a long journey to get here. But I’m super-happy to be a part of this team, this club and everything it stands for. It’s something I’m proud of and I’m really looking forward to it.
‘I’m just happy it’s done and that I can get back to work. I’m looking forward to seeing my teammates and the fans, and getting back out there.
‘I think I have a lot to give, I think I have a lot to improve. I’m a striker but I always want to give as much as possible to the team, mainly goals but much more than that as well.
‘I want to win everything. Yeah, [as simple as that].’
On taking the No. 9 shirt, previously worn by the likes of Ian Rush, Robbie Fowler and Fernando Torres, Isak added: ‘It means a lot, it’s an iconic number.
‘Obviously it comes with a responsibility as well but I’m delighted to have this chance and to get this number.
‘I’m just motivated to start working and hopefully giving back as well.’
While Newcastle were disappointed to lose Isak and were left appalled by his conduct, they have worked hard to sign two replacements.
The Magpies signed Nick Woltemade in a club-record deal worth £69m and Yoane Wissa from Brentford.
Like Isak, Wissa refused to play for Brentford to force through his desired move to St James’ Park.
‘I’m really happy to be here and to sign for one of the biggest clubs in the Premier League,’ said Wissa.
‘I’m very, very excited to put on the black and white shirt. I’ve got dreams, I’ve got faith and now I will do my best to make it all happen. I can’t wait to get started.’
Newcastle boss Howe added: ‘Yoane is a player who we have admired for some time and we’re delighted to have him on board.
‘He brings proven Premier League quality, demonstrated not only by his goalscoring output but also the crucial work he does for the team.
‘Yoane’s style of play will excite our supporters and complement our style of play – he has pace, power and an excellent work rate. He immediately makes us stronger.’
Newcastle have endured a difficult start to the new season, taking just two points from their opening three games. They play host to Wolves this weekend.
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