Virgil van Dijk makes Alexander Isak feelings very clear after explosive statement

Virgil van Dijk highlights Alexander Isak as one of the toughest strikers he’s faced, increasing speculation about Isak’s potential move from Newcastle, making it a key focus for punters betting on the upcoming transfer window.

Virgil van Dijk has named Alexander Isak among the most challenging strikers he has faced, as Liverpool maintain their interest in the Newcastle forward - who released a bombshell statement regarding his future.

The Swedish international is pushing for a departure from St. James' Park and has made it clear that he will not turn out for the club again. Such a move would represent a devastating setback for the Magpies, given Isak's pivotal role in their recent achievements.

He found the back of the net against Van Dijk and Liverpool when Newcastle secured Carabao Cup glory last season - their first domestic silverware in seven decades. Isak also scored in a Premier League draw with the Reds, taking his tally to four goals against the Merseyside giants across six encounters.

That calibre has clearly caught Van Dijk's attention, with the defender questioned about the most formidable forwards he has encountered in the Premier League. Whether he was deliberately praising Isak remains uncertain, but he placed the Swede amongst the elite bracket.

Speaking to Cecil Thomas during a TikTok live stream, he remarked: "[Erling] Haaland, Isak, [Ollie] Watkins, Harry Kane. Speaking about the last couple of years in the Premier League, there are plenty. Everybody has a different challenge so I respect everyone playing in the Premier League because it's the hardest league in the world."

Isak was absent from the PFA Awards in Manchester, despite earning selection in the Premier League Team of the Year following a brilliant campaign for Newcastle that saw only Mohamed Salah net more goals.

The Swedish striker used Tuesday evening to finally speak out after months of speculation. The forward declared: "I've kept quiet for a long time while others have spoken. 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."

Newcastle have already knocked back a Liverpool approach worth around £110million and are holding out for a significantly larger sum, whilst insisting their talisman will not be sold.

Isak is understood to be furious after Newcastle reportedly reneged on pledges to review his contract and is now pushing for an exit. He added: "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."

Virgil van Dijk name-dropped Alexander Isak at the PFA awards ceremony.

Express