2 days ago
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Alexander Isak has faced criticism as speculation continues over his future at Newcastle United Liverpool had previously eyed the 25 year old as a prime target, that is until the Reds splashed out to secure Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt.
The Reds have been rejuvenated this July after their initial summer spending spree. Securing a new striker was high on their agenda, with genuine interest in Newcastle's ace Isak, despite early indications that his club would resist any transfer attempts.
Liverpool has since completed a deal for a fresh attacking option, capturing Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt. The French international has penned a six-year deal for a fee of $106 million (£79 million), and has been handed a temporary squad number for the pre-season tour.
Isak remains at Newcastle gearing up for the upcoming season, but his representative has made a statement saying that all options were being considered. Speculation has intensified after Isak was left out of Newcastle's squad for its pre-season tour.
Newcastle is keen to fend off interest in their forward by engaging in contract extension discussions. According to the latest from talkSPORT, Isak has set forth wage demands of over $400,000-a-week to stay put at St. James' Park.
Following this revelation, Simon Jordan was queried on whether he grasps why the player is asking for such a sum.
"There is a part of me that understands that he signed a long-term contract with them, so they don't have to do anything of the sort," he replied sarcastically.
"Then you get into the territory of do you have to argue with the reality of a player having the hump?".
"I think he's worth to Newcastle whatever they're willing to pay. There is a certain limitation to that because it is not just what you do for Isak, it's what you then have to do for others.
"Of course he is [the star of the show] but there are some other big names in that dressing room. [Sandro] Tonali is no slouch, neither's [Bruno] Guimaraes, Joelinton and a few of the other players.
"I will consider they are all part of a unique outfit, he might be the cherry on the top, but believe me if someone's wages go up there's not an acceptance that he is the star, we shouldn't get a pay rise."
Despite any potential contract standoff, Newcastle retain control over the Liverpool target with his deal running until the summer of 2028.
Jordan added: "That (losing him to another club) is always an alternative but you're as secure as the long-term length of your contract.
"It's a balancing act between what he wants, what you've got him under contract to do, what you gave him when he signed the contract and what opportunities you've facilitated for him to come to the Premier League.
"I am with you to some extent, the best players in the world, in the league or the best players at other clubs he could join are getting £300k per week and he could be getting that too.
"But, I am also of the point that he signed a contract. Besides bad form and being a bad actor, he has no leverage. $200M (£150m) on the nail with no drip feeding down, if people want him that's what they have to pay."
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