Alexander Isak's agent has taken a swipe at Newcastle after helping his client join Liverpool as appeared to underline his happiness that he doesn't have to deal with the Magpies again
Alexander Isak's agent Vlado Lemic has claimed "it's nice when you have someone to be with but it's even nicer when you know who you'll never be with again” following his striker's move from Newcastle to Liverpool.
The Swede eventually got his way as he completed a British-record switch to Anfield, costing the Reds £125million, after he'd spent weeks pushing for the exit door with his representative aiding his desire to seek pastures new.
Isak's exit has left a bitter taste in the mouths of the Geordie faithful and the sentiment from his agent, who gave his comment to TalkSport when invited onto the radio show, will only add to the anger at St James' Park.
The short clip circulated on social media, with the agent and Isak being slammed by football fans. One wrote: "That's pretty bad. Hope he doesn't have any players he wants to send to newcastle anytime soon." Another added: "Hopefully PIF (Newcastle owners) take note . It's not very clever of him as an agent, when a client practically owns an entire league." A third said: "The feeling is mutual being honest. I hope we never have to deal with that agent or any of his players again."
The opening weeks of the season have been dominated by talk of whether Newcastle would eventually choose to sell Isak. The striker had become the team's leading light but made it clear earlier this summer that he wanted to explore his options away from the club.
He then cited an injury as the reason for missing the club's pre-season tour, only to be seen training at former club Real Sociedad. Isak was then told to train away from the first-team before releasing an explosive statement on social media where he took aim at the club.
The Swede said: "The reality is that promises were made and the club has known my position for a long time. To now act as if these issues are only emerging is misleading. When promises are broken and trust is lost, the relationship can't continue. That's where things are for me right now - and why change is in the best interests of everyone, not just myself.”
Isak was thought to be angered by the refusal to deliver on a promise by previous bosses to sit down and review his contract. Former sporting director Paul Mitchell shelved those talks when he arrived with the striker holding a grudge over that decision.
Newcastle issued a short, cold statement when they announced his deadline day exit. The player himself further bolsters an electric Liverpool attacking line and claimed he was partly relieved to have seal his exit.
He said: “It’s mixed emotions – some relief but a lot of pride, happiness. I’m just happy it’s done and that I can get back to work. I’m looking forward to seeing my teammates and the fans, and getting back out there."
Liverpool have already visited St James' Park this season, winning 3-2 late in stoppage time just over a week ago, but Isak's first meeting with his former club is set to be on January 31 when Newcastle head to Anfield.