Liverpool’s pursuit of Alexander Isak has dominated headlines all summer, and now it has crossed into the world of WWE. During a live event in Newcastle on August 24, Liverpool-supporting wrestler JD McDonagh provoked outrage from the local crowd by unveiling a Reds shirt with Isak’s name and number on the back. The stunt has added even more fuel to an already fiery transfer saga.
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WWE star unveils Liverpool “Isak 9” shirt in Newcastle
Loud boos follow stunt as striker pushes for Anfield switch
Newcastle resist £110m bid with no replacement secured yet
JD McDonagh, a well-known Liverpool supporter, was performing at a WWE live show in Newcastle ahead of the Reds’ Premier League clash with the Magpies. During his match, he pulled out a Liverpool shirt emblazoned with “Isak 9,” sparking loud boos from the home fans. McDonagh later doubled down by posting footage of the moment on X, captioned “Free Isak.”
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Isak has made it clear he wants to join Liverpool, refusing to play for Newcastle and issuing a statement citing broken promises. The Reds had a £110 million ($148m) bid rejected earlier this month, and with no replacement signed, Newcastle are reluctant to sanction a sale. McDonagh’s stunt highlights just how much the transfer saga has captured attention beyond football circles.
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Liverpool are still interested, but it appears unlikely that Newcastle will allow Isak to leave before the transfer window closes. The Magpies have struggled to land striking reinforcements, making a late deal difficult. Unless there’s a major breakthrough, Isak may have to wait before securing his desired Anfield move.