Mike Ashley’s legacy lives on - Newcastle United blow £10m transfer opportunity with ‘monster’ sell-on fee
Bobby Clark left Newcastle United to join Liverpool as a 16-year-old in 2021
Liverpool have flipped an £8.5million profit on former Newcastle United youngster Bobby Clark.
Red Bull Salzburg confirmed earlier today that Clark - son of former Toon star Lee - has joined the club on a five-year deal. This comes three years after he controversially left Tyneside just weeks before the Saudi-backed takeover.
The midfielder was one of the most highly-rated prospects at Benton until Liverpool poached him. Newcastle agreed a £1.5million compensation package and fans were left reeling, using his exit to highlight a lack of ambition under Mike Ashley.
Those sentiments reared their head again when Clark lifted the Carabao Cup for Liverpool last season - starring in the final. The 19-year-old went on to play 12 times under Jurgen Klopp in 2024-25 but is now targeting regular first-team football.
Klopp’s long-serving assistant at Anfield, Pep Lijnders, is now the No.1 at RB Salzburg and identified Clark as the man to bolster his engine room. Known as a club for developing youth talent, the ex-Newcastle youngster is relishing the chance to play regularly.
“After an incredible three years at Liverpool FC, I’ve decided it’s time for a new challenge,” he posted on social media. “I’ve learned so much during my time at the club and (I) am very thankful for the opportunities and experiences I’ve had. Thank you to all the fans who supported me on this journey.”
NewcastleWorld understands the Magpies included no sell-on clause in the initial compensation deal. Unlike Liverpool, however, who are set to cop a monster 17 per cent of any future sale.