Overview

• Alexander Isak said promises were broken and signaled he wants out, with reports he has told confidants he will not play for Newcastle again after training separately and skipping the pre-season tour.
• Newcastle issued an official statement saying the conditions for a sale this summer have not transpired and are not expected to, with decisions widely reported to rest with the club’s Saudi owners, PIF.
• Liverpool’s initial offer of about £110m was rejected as Newcastle’s valuation sits near £150m, and there has been no improved formal bid to date.
• Liverpool have slowed their pursuit while prioritising defensive reinforcements after signing Hugo Ekitike, with interest ongoing in Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi.
• With the September 1 deadline nearing, reports highlight FIFA’s Article 17 as a potential route next summer that could let Isak leave unilaterally and send any compensation to a tribunal process.