Wayne Rooney surprisingly defends Newcastle United’s bold £150m transfer stance

An impressive campaign has resulted in the Swede netting 22 times across all competitions - three behind last season’s total. Isak’s form has fuelled speculation linking him with a potential move at the end of the campaign.

Signed for a club-record £63million from Real Sociedad in August 2022, Toon chiefs reportedly value the 25-year-old at £150million. That would make the most expensive player - bought or sold - in British football history.

Club CEO Darren Eales sent a warning to potential suitors last week that Newcastle hold all the cards given Isak’s lengthy contract until 2028. He said: “The reality is that all of our players are under long-term deals. They are committed to the club. 

NewcastleWorld: Essential is our weekly newsletter, delivering the city’s best bits to you inbox - sign up here

“So, from that perspective, we are not looking to move any player on. We’ve got that wish and desire to keep our key players and we’re not under the gun (to sell) or anything like that. 

“We have got an ownership that is ambitious and wants the best for the club. So from that perspective, it’d be crazy for us to consider it."

When discussing the importance of No.9s in football, Manchester United legend Rooney questioned why Newcastle would sell Isak to a direct rival. He told BBC Sport: “Why would Newcastle United sell him? Alexander Isak would fit into any team. 

“He has been fantastic over the past couple of years and scored a lot of goals. His link-up play and movement is brilliant too. He would improve any team in the Premier League. But I also think it will be very difficult to get him out of Newcastle. Why would they sell him?”