This summer, Newcastle United made headlines not just for what they brought in, but also for what — and who — they let go.
The club’s handling of striker Alexander Isak’s departure to Liverpool has sparked plenty of debate, both online and in the stands.
For fans, it was a mix of shock, frustration, and resignation as one of the team’s most influential players moved on in record-breaking fashion.
A Swift and Understated Goodbye
Alexander Isak, 25, finalized his transfer to Liverpool on Monday, signing a long-term deal worth £125 million — setting a new British transfer record.
Newcastle’s official announcement, however, was surprisingly brief.
In just 37 words, the club confirmed the deal, noting only that Isak had made 109 appearances since joining from Real Sociedad in 2022.
There was no mention of his iconic goal in the Carabao Cup final, which helped Newcastle secure their first trophy in 56 years, nor the 62 goals he scored across all competitions or the two Champions League qualifications he contributed to during his three-year spell.
Fans Respond with Mixed Emotions
The reaction from supporters on social media was immediate and passionate.
Some mocked the club’s terse farewell, with one fan writing, “A statement of few words for a man of few morals.”
Others cheered the brevity, seeing it as a fair reflection of Isak’s controversial exit — he had refused to play and accused Newcastle of breaking promises.
Yet, many fans took a more balanced view, mourning both the player’s talent and the messy way his time at St James’ Park ended.
Comments highlighted the sadness of a legacy tarnished: “He was great and helped the team in monumental ways, just his departure was beyond childish,” wrote one.
Another added, “Worst thing for me is that it tainted the greatest moment I ever had supporting this club — winning the cup.
Should have been perfect, now just feels meh.”
Isak’s Liverpool Debut and Record-Breaking Deal
Isak arrived at Liverpool on Monday morning, completing his medical in two stages before posing for photos at the AXA Training Centre.
Later, he boarded a flight to Stockholm to join Sweden’s national team.
His six-year deal surpasses Chelsea’s record signing of Moises Caicedo and eclipses Liverpool’s own £116 million acquisition of Florian Wirtz earlier this summer.
The new Liverpool number nine expressed excitement about the move, saying, “It’s been a long journey to get here.
I’m proud to be part of this club and everything it stands for.
I want to give my all, score goals, and help the team win everything.”
Newcastle Moves Fast to Reinvest
Meanwhile, Newcastle acted quickly to reinvest the Isak funds.
First came German striker Nick Woltemade from Stuttgart, breaking the club’s record again with a deal of up to £69 million.
Standing 6ft 6in, the 23-year-old, nicknamed “Woltemessi” by Manuel Neuer for his technical skill, scored 17 goals in 33 games last season and finished top scorer at the Under-21 European Championship.
Then Newcastle secured Yoane Wissa for £55 million.
The 28-year-old DR Congo forward, who scored 19 non-penalty Premier League goals last season, brings proven top-flight experience and is expected to help fill the gap left by Isak’s departure.
A New Era at St James’ Park
With Isak gone and two new forwards in place, Newcastle United enters a fresh chapter.
Fans may still be divided over Isak’s exit, but the club’s ambition remains clear: reinvesting in talent and aiming high for the Premier League and European competitions.
The summer transfer window may have closed on controversy, but it also opened the door to exciting new possibilities at St James’ Park.
