Missing out on the Champions League could be costly for Newcastle United.
While the PIF project at Newcastle is no doubt a long term one, surely few would deny that this season has been disappointing.
There are a multitude of reasons for that of course and the success of Eddie Howe’s first full season in charge of the club was always going to be hard to follow.
Still, the grim reality is that not qualifying for the continent’s elite club competition leaves the club somewhat vulnerable.
Obviously, they miss out on the added revenue the Champions League brings, for starters.
Then, there’s players potentially leaving.
Indeed, Bruno Guimaraes reportedly has a verbal agreement with the club that he can talk to clubs in the Champions League should offers hit the £80m mark.
It remains to be seen whether or not he does go but the rumours certainly are swirling.
Alexander Isak is another being linked away, albeit there isn’t believed to be a release clause in his Newcastle contract.
Something else in regards to his deal at St James’ Park, however, could complicate matters.
Alexander Isak is now facing a pay cut at Newcastle
Noted transfer insider Dean Jones says the 24-year-old could actually see his wages cut by 20%.
He, along with some of his teammates, will reportedly see his salary decrease as the result of Newcastle not making the Champions League.
In fact, the club are understood to know there’s a good chance a suitor playing in that competition could come in and offer him a pay rise.
With that in mind, Jones says Isak’s loyalty could be tested.
“On the back of the season that Alexander Isak has had from a personal standpoint, he would have reason to feel worthy of a pay rise, but he will see up to 20 per cent of his wages drop in line with the rest of his teammates next season and, as a result, he will also have discussions with the club about his contract,” he told GIVEMESPORT.
“This is a tricky time for Newcastle because they do not want to lose him but know there is a good chance another club – who are in the Champions League and can offer a pay rise – will come in for him. He loves the club, but it would be a test of loyalty and resolve if an offer does land.”
Selling Alexander Isak would be a disaster for Newcastle
How on earth would Newcastle go about replacing Isak this summer without breaking the bank? Even if they were to invest heavily in the event of his departure, there’s little guarantee big money spent would secure a player anywhere near as good.
As Rio Ferdinand pointed out, what kind of striker could possibly replace someone hailed as a “generational talent”?
It would be an impossible task. Hopefully, Isak really is in it for the long haul.
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