Newcastle forced to delete Alexander Isak social media post amid Liverpool transfer links
Newcastle United found themselves in an awkward position after hastily removing a promotional social media post that inadvertently fueled transfer rumors surrounding star striker Alexander Isak.
The ill-advised tweet, featuring an image of the Swedish international alongside the caption “on sale now” to advertise tickets for their August 8 preseason friendly against Espanyol, was swiftly deleted following fan backlash before being reposted with amended wording.
The poorly-timed marketing blunder came amid intense speculation about Isak’s future, with several top European clubs reportedly monitoring the 24-year-old’s situation.
Having just completed his most productive season yet in black-and-white stripes, netting crucial goals including the Carabao Cup final winner, Isak has cemented his status as Newcastle’s most valuable asset.
The social media gaffe prompted immediate reaction from supporters, with one fan succinctly noting: “A picture of Isak with a big ‘On sale now’ sign is not the best idea…” during a sensitive period in the transfer window.
Newcastle’s hierarchy remain adamant about retaining their talismanic forward, whose current contract runs until 2027.
Champions League qualification has strengthened their negotiating position, with any potential suitors likely needing to table bids well in excess of £100 million to even prompt consideration from the St James’ Park board.
Manager Eddie Howe reinforced this stance recently, stating: “We want to keep our strongest players…the ambition of the club is long-term success and that’s the only way to get that.”
The Espanyol friendly forms part of Newcastle’s Sela Cup preseason preparations, alongside a sold-out clash against Atletico Madrid the following day.
While the club’s marketing team aimed to boost ticket sales for the less glamorous Spanish opponent, their choice of imagery and phrasing created unnecessary distractions during a crucial summer recruitment period.
This incident comes during a transitional phase for Newcastle’s football operations following sporting director Paul Mitchell’s unexpected departure.
The Magpies are determined to make significant moves in the transfer market after last summer’s relatively quiet window, with Brighton’s João Pedro emerging as a primary target.
However, maintaining their prized assets like Isak remains the foundation of their strategy as they seek to build on last season’s trophy success and Champions League qualification.
The social media faux pas, while harmless in isolation, highlights the heightened scrutiny surrounding Newcastle’s key players during transfer windows.
With Isak representing the club’s attacking focal point and having shown consistent improvement since his club-record £63 million arrival from Real Sociedad in 2022, even inadvertent suggestions of availability were always likely to generate unwanted attention.
As preseason preparations intensify, Newcastle’s focus remains firmly on strengthening rather than dismantling their core squad.
The swift deletion of the problematic post demonstrates the club’s awareness of Isak’s symbolic importance to their project, even as they seek to commercialize friendly fixtures.
With ambitious plans taking shape both on and off the pitch, the Magpies will be more careful than ever to avoid sending mixed messages about their determination to keep their star players.