Alexander Isak's Newcastle Future in Doubt, Says Wayne Rooney
Former England captain Wayne Rooney believes it is increasingly unlikely that Alexander Isak will remain at Newcastle United, suggesting a move to Liverpool could benefit both club and player.
Alexander Isak's future at Newcastle United appears increasingly uncertain, says former England captain Wayne Rooney.
Newcastle turned down a £110million bid from Liverpool on 1 August, but the 25-year-old Sweden international remains determined to join the Premier League champions.
Speaking on his new INLIBER podcast, Rooney argued that financial fair play rules and squad-building ambitions could make a sale beneficial for both parties.
"Isak is a top player," Rooney said. "It is very difficult for him to stay at Newcastle. They risk losing a key striker when they aim to challenge for the title."
He believes that selling Isak would free up funds to strengthen the squad, while offering the forward a rare chance to move to a club that has just won the league.
Rooney, no stranger to transfer dramas, recalled how fans once protested outside his home during speculation over a proposed Manchester City move. "It got scary - you never expect supporters in balaclavas at 3am," he said.
Sesko Emerges as Potential Replacement
Newcastle had reportedly eyed RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko, but the 22-year-old instead joined Manchester United for around £73.7m. Sesko scored 39 goals in 87 appearances and ranks as the top scorer under-23 across Europe's top five leagues.
"He has all the attributes: size, strength, pace and both-footed finishing," Rooney commented. "But United carry extra pressure that comes with the club."
Midfield Reinforcements Still Needed
With Sesko, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo arriving, Rooney believes United's attack has been revitalised. However, he argues that a defensive midfielder remains a priority.
"Someone like Brighton's Carlos Baleba could help break up play and allow the attacking players to flourish," he said.
Grealish Could Thrive at Everton
Rooney also praised Jack Grealish's loan move from Manchester City to Everton. "Jack needs regular football to regain confidence. Everton's culture of hard work suits him, and his creativity could make him a fan favourite," he said.
Isak's potential departure may help Newcastle comply with financial rules and reinvest in their squad, while giving the striker a rare opportunity to join reigning Premier League champions Liverpool.
This article was reported by BBC Sport.
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