Alexander Isak could have a unique clause added to his contract if he completes a move to Liverpool, and it’s all due to an incident involving a former Reds player.
Since the end of the 2024/25 season, speculation around Isak’s future at Newcastle United has been widespread. The Swedish striker, who netted 27 goals in 42 appearances last season, has attracted interest from top clubs including Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United, and Al Hilal.
Despite the rumors, Newcastle have consistently insisted that Isak is not for sale, and it would take a massive bid to even begin negotiations. Still, reports this week suggested that Liverpool remain interested in the striker even after securing Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt.
On Thursday, Newcastle announced that Isak did not travel with the squad for their pre-season tour in Asia due to an injury. Shortly afterward, reports emerged that Isak had informed the club of his desire to pursue a move elsewhere.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Isak’s preferred destination is Liverpool. He posted on social media: “Once again: Alexander Isak wants Liverpool, it’s his priority as reported. No talks with Al Hilal, Chelsea or Manchester United.”
Should a deal with Liverpool materialize, it’s believed that a special clause may be inserted into Isak’s contract — one inspired by a past incident involving ex-Liverpool winger Ryan Babel.
The story traces back to Liverpool’s FA Cup defeat to Manchester United in 2011. United won 1-0 thanks to a penalty from Ryan Giggs, and Steven Gerrard received a red card for a challenge on Michael Carrick. Referee Howard Webb officiated the match, and Babel took to social media afterward to vent his frustration.
Babel posted an edited photo of Webb in a Manchester United shirt, alongside the caption: “And they call him one of the best referees? That’s a joke. SMH.” This tweet led to a £10,000 fine from the Football Association — the first time a player was penalized for a social media post.
Recalling the incident on the SDS podcast, Babel said the episode prompted clubs to include clauses in players’ contracts related to social media conduct. He explained:
“I tweeted a few things about the referee after the game. It went viral — CNN, Sky Sports, everywhere. Two days later, Liverpool called me in. Legal was there, and they said the FA didn’t know how to deal with it because it was a first. They decided to fine me and make an example out of me.”
Babel concluded by saying: “Because of that, clubs started adding clauses about social media — basically stating that if a player damages the club’s reputation online, they can be fined. That all started because of me.”
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