English Premier League side Newcastle United has responded to Alexander Isak's claims that the club broke promises regarding his future.
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After the Swedish striker reportedly expressed a desire to leave Newcastle, he emerged as one of Liverpool's biggest transfer targets this transfer window.
Newcastle rejected a £110 million (R2,6 billion) plus add-ons bid from the Reds last month as they look to hold out for a £150 million (R3,5 billion) offer.
In a social media post, Isak revealed he skipped the PFA Awards, where he was selected for the Team of the Year, amid the transfer speculation, and also admitted that Newcastle had not kept their word on his future.
"The reality is that promises were made and the club has known my position for a long time," Isak said. "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," he concluded.
Newcastle released a statement in response to Isak's social media post, admitting disappointment over the Swede's actions.
"We are disappointed to have been alerted to a social media post by Alexander Isak this evening," the statement read.
"We are clear in response that Alex remains under contract and that no commitment has ever been made by a club official that Alex can leave Newcastle United this summer."
The club doubled down on its view that Isak would not be sold, and it would put its interests first.
"We want to keep our best players, but we also understand players have their own wishes, and we listen to their views. As explained to Alex and his representatives, we must always take into consideration the best interests of Newcastle United, the team and our supporters in all decisions, and we have been clear that the conditions of a sale this summer have not transpired. We do not foresee those conditions being met," it added.
The club admitted that the ex-Borussia Dortmund man would be welcomed back to the team once he is ready.
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"This is a proud football club with proud traditions, and we strive to retain our family feel. Alex remains part of our family and will be welcomed back when he is ready to rejoin his teammates," the statement concluded.
