Newcastle supporters have directed fierce criticism at Alexander Isak amid his push for a Liverpool transfer, with footage capturing fans hurling insults at the Swedish international.
Video footage circulating on social media shows angry supporters, largely kids, shouting abuse at the 25-year-old striker as he drove through the streets, with multiple voices calling him a "rat" and one person yelling "f*****g rat."
The hostile reception reflects mounting frustration among the St James' Park faithful as Isak attempts to engineer a British record transfer to Anfield.
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The forward has isolated himself from Eddie Howe's squad whilst pursuing the move to the reigning Premier League champions before the September 1 deadline.
Alexander Isak had abused hurled at him near the Newcastle training ground
|Getty
The striker chose Tuesday evening to address the situation publicly, posting a statement on social media after skipping the PFA Awards ceremony in London.
Despite earning recognition in the PFA Premier League Team of the Season, Isak explained his absence, writing: "With everything going on, it didn't feel right to be there."
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He accused Newcastle of misrepresenting the situation, stating: "That silence has allowed people to push their own version of events, even though they know it doesn't reflect what was really said and agreed behind closed doors."
The forward claimed the club had long been aware of his position and that "promises were made" which have since been broken, leading to an irreparable breakdown in trust.
Newcastle issued a swift rebuttal to Isak's accusations late Tuesday, expressing disappointment at his social media post and firmly rejecting his version of events.
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A video posted on TikTok showing the abuse the striker was subjected to
|TikTok
The club's statement insisted: "No commitment has ever been made by a club official that Alex can leave Newcastle United this summer."
They acknowledged understanding players' personal ambitions but emphasised that "the conditions of a sale this summer have not transpired."
Crucially, Newcastle indicated they "do not foresee those conditions being met," effectively dismissing Liverpool's chances of securing the striker.
The Magpies had previously rejected a £110million offer from Liverpool earlier in the summer, maintaining their £150million valuation.
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The transfer standoff leaves Newcastle exploring contingency plans, with Brentford's Yoane Wissa identified as a potential replacement who reportedly favours a move to Tyneside.
Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson has also emerged as a target, as exclusively revealed by GB News last month, though Aston Villa have entered the race for the Blues striker in recent days.
Arne Slot is keen on bolstering his Liverpool squad further despite the signing of Hugo Ekitike and wants Alexander Isak to front his attack
| PADespite the turmoil, Newcastle's statement attempted to strike a conciliatory tone, describing Isak as "part of our family" who "will be welcomed back when he is ready to rejoin his teammates."
The timing proves particularly awkward with Newcastle scheduled to host Liverpool on Monday evening, leaving Isak's participation in doubt.