Former Newcastle winger Nolberto Solano has warned the club against selling Alexander Isak.
Isak is attracting interest from Europe’s top clubs after three excellent campaigns at St James’ Park. The Swedish striker is the second-highest scorer in the Premier League this season with 22 goals and has 61 goals in 101 games since joining Newcastle.
Real Madrid, Barcelona, Arsenal and Liverpool have all been linked, with Newcastle likely to command a British transfer record sum from potential suitors. However, Solano has warned the Magpies against a sale, insisting it would be ‘hard’ to replace the 25-year-old regardless of the fee received.
22 goals in the league and counting… 🥶
Alex Isak is having his best scoring season in the @premierleague since he joined the club. 💪 pic.twitter.com/60fsM3CZxL
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) April 27, 2025
“First, they have to renew his contract. It’s tough when clubs like Real Madrid come calling. But if Newcastle wants to keep growing, they need to hold on to players like him,” Solano told Flashscore.
“If they sell him, it’ll be hard to find someone as good.”
Solano spoke further on the challenge for Newcastle to compete at the top end of the table. He was delighted to see the Magpies end their trophy drought this season with League Cup success and hopes it can be a springboard to further honours.
“Newcastle has always been a massive club, but they’ve lacked trophies. I remember in my first year, we played in the FA Cup final against Manchester United. The city was desperate to win something. The buildup was insane – people treated it like the World Cup. For them, winning that trophy was like Peru winning the World Cup.
“I’m happy because I still have a connection with the club. They treat former players wonderfully, almost like ambassadors. When I’m in England, I represent the club with pride.
“In Newcastle, the whole city breathes football. You don’t see shirts from other teams. You’re born a Newcastle fan. That’s what I value most about their supporters – their loyalty, even without winning titles.
“I still visit the kitmen, who’ve been there since my playing days. You walk around the city, and people recognise me as if I’d just retired a few weeks ago. The affection is immense.
“I’m happy for the club and the city. I hope they get back into the Champions League. It’s a tough competition, always full of big clubs. Newcastle is in that mix now, like Dortmund or Atletico.
“Maybe one day they’ll win the league – that would be the next big step, especially with the new Saudi owners. But it’s a process. No matter how much money you have, nothing guarantees trophies.”
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