Alexander Isak puts pen to paper on his long-term contract at Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre on deadline day. Photo by Glenn Price/Liverpool FC.
Credit: Glenn Price/Liverpool FC
Alexander Isak has completed a British record £125 million transfer from Newcastle United to Liverpool, expressing gratitude to his former club despite an acrimonious exit involving a player strike to force the move.
Isak ‘Forever Grateful’ to Newcastle After British Record £125m Liverpool Switch
Alexander Isak has officially joined Liverpool for a British record £125 million fee, expressing he remains “forever grateful” to Newcastle United despite forcing through the transfer by refusing to play for the Magpies. The Swedish striker’s move was finalized on August 31, 2025, ending a protracted saga that saw him effectively go on strike to secure his departure from St. James’ Park.
Newcastle United confirmed the sale with a notably terse 37-word statement that acknowledged the record transfer fee and Isak’s contribution but lacked any warmth or traditional farewell sentiments. The club’s blunt announcement reflected the bitter nature of his exit, particularly after Isak’s refusal to honor his contract during the final stages of negotiations. Liverpool, meanwhile, announced their tenth summer signing with considerable fanfare, assigning Isak the prestigious No. 9 shirt.
Despite the acrimonious circumstances surrounding his departure, Isak took to social media and interviews to thank Newcastle supporters for “three unforgettable years” at the club. The 25-year-old scored 62 goals in 109 appearances for Newcastle, including a crucial strike in last season’s Carabao Cup final victory over Liverpool – ironically against his new employers. His departure comes after helping Newcastle secure their first trophy in 70 years.
Former Newcastle striker Alan Shearer publicly criticized Isak’s conduct, describing the player’s strike as “a really bad look for football” while acknowledging his quality as a player. Newcastle moved quickly to replace their star striker, signing Nick Woltemade for an initial £69 million and Yoane Wissa for £50 million on deadline day, indicating they had prepared for his eventual departure.
The transfer represents Liverpool’s most significant summer investment as they continue rebuilding under their current management structure. While the basic transfer fee has been confirmed, specific details regarding contract length, personal terms, and any performance-related add-ons remain undisclosed. Isak expressed being “super-happy” to join Liverpool, though questions remain about how quickly he will integrate tactically and whether the relationship with Newcastle supporters can ever be fully repaired following his controversial exit strategy.
