Alan Shearer has criticized Alexander Isak for adding "flames to the fire" with his recent public comments regarding his potential transfer from Newcastle United. The Swedish international has been heavily linked with a move to Liverpool throughout the transfer window, and the situation has become increasingly tense.
The speculation intensified after Newcastle reportedly rejected a £110 million bid from Liverpool for Isak, who enjoyed a prolific 2024-25 season, scoring 23 league goals for the Magpies. The 25-year-old further fueled the rumors when he trained with his former club, Real Sociedad, during Newcastle’s pre-season tour of Asia. He subsequently missed Newcastle's opening matchday draw against Aston Villa.
On Tuesday, Isak publicly addressed the transfer saga, hinting at a breakdown in his relationship with Newcastle and alleging that promises had been broken. This prompted a swift response from Newcastle, who issued a statement asserting that "no commitment has ever been made" regarding Isak's potential departure this summer.
Adding fuel to the fire, Shearer, a Newcastle legend with 177 goals in 348 appearances for the club, described the situation as an "absolute mess." He went so far as to suggest that Isak should immediately dismiss his agent, Vlado Lemic, for allegedly providing poor advice.
"If I was him, I’d get his agent in a room and sack him on the spot immediately, because he is meant to be giving him the advice to sign that six-year deal and there’s no get-out clause," Shearer stated in an interview. "I mean, it’s ridiculous. And to take anyone’s word in football, it’s nonsensical to say that someone said, ‘Oh, I’ll be able to get out at the end of the season.’ Really? I mean, come on."
Shearer further emphasized that Isak's public statement had only exacerbated the situation. "I just think even releasing this statement last night has thrown flames onto the fire, which he didn’t need to do. I get that we needed to hear his side of the story, and we’ve heard that now, and I’m not saying I don’t believe him or I don’t believe Newcastle, I’m just saying it’s very, very messy for him and for the football club. It doesn’t benefit anyone."
Despite already securing the signature of Hugo Ekitike, a player Newcastle also had their eye on, Liverpool are expected to make an improved offer for Isak. The Swedish forward has three years remaining on his current contract, and Newcastle have reiterated their stance that he is not for sale unless Liverpool meet their £150 million valuation.
Amidst the uncertainty surrounding Isak's future, Newcastle have reportedly resumed discussions with Brentford regarding a potential move for Yoane Wissa. It is believed that Newcastle have submitted an improved bid of £35 million, including £5 million in add-ons, for Wissa after their initial offer of £30 million was rejected.
The situation remains fluid, with Isak's future at Newcastle hanging in the balance as Liverpool continue to pursue his signature.
