Do Liverpool really need Alexander Isak?

 

Liverpool’s summer spending spree shows no signs of stopping, as Arne Sloter continues to overhaul the team destined for the 2024-25 Premier League title.

Following Trent Alexander-Arnold’s departure, Liverpool appears destined for a big summer, and the untimely death of Diogo Jota means that reinforcements up front are likely a priority.

The Reds have already addressed many of their problem positions, acquiring Jérémy Frimpong, Milos Krkczyk, and Florian Wirtz for significant transfer fees this summer. These transfers have already reduced Liverpool’s chances of winning the league title.

However, reports continue to circulate about the Anfield club potentially pursuing Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak. So, do the Reds really need to bring in the Swedish player?

Isak is a long-term target

Liverpool’s pursuit of Isak has already resulted in the club’s initial £100 million bid being thwarted. Newcastle United expects a significantly higher transfer fee if they allow the Swedish striker to leave the club this summer, but reports suggest the Premier League champions may not be interested in a second bid.

Liverpool itself arguably has an impact on Newcastle’s stance, as the Reds, after quickly signing Go Ekitik, hijacked a move for their top striker this summer. Eddie Howe’s side had been the frontrunners for the 23-year-old, but Liverpool acted quickly to secure the deal.

The former Eintracht Frankfurt star performed well in the Bundesliga last season, but his 15 goals were lower than Isak’s. His lack of Premier League experience could also be seen as a drawback, meaning Liverpool’s pursuit of Isak may be due to the Swedish player’s potential to be a strong contender at Anfield.

What will Liverpool’s forward line look like?

Slot is unlikely to make sweeping changes to Liverpool’s Premier League title-winning formation last season, meaning the Dutchman is likely to continue using a 4-2-3-1.

Mohamed Salah is a guaranteed starter at right wing, while big-money signing Florian Wirtz is expected to play as a number 10. However, the possibility of Isak arriving at Anfield could have a greater impact on Ekitik’s role than most. The Frenchman is capable of playing as a winger, but his progress in Germany last season came as a number 9.

If Ekitik moves to the left wing, it could be bad news for Cody Gakpo, who was a regular in that position last season. However, if the club is to spend the better part of £140 million, it’s almost impossible to deny that Isak won’t be a regular starter for the Reds next season.

Isak Guaranteed Goals

Liverpool scored a staggering 86 goals in the Premier League last season, meaning few would have anticipated that the attacking position would become an issue for Slaughter this summer.

However, it’s worth noting that Liverpool suffered a goal drought during the crucial stages of the Champions League, ultimately being eliminated by Paris Saint-Germain. Isak would certainly solve any issues the club faced in the final third, given his proven goalscoring record in the Premier League. Last season, the Swede scored an impressive 23 goals in 34 Premier League appearances and has amassed 32 goals in all competitions for club and country.

Isak’s prolific play in front of goal is one reason he’s highly regarded, with an expected goals per game of 20.54 in the Premier League. The striker has an impressive 44 on target from his 74 shots in the 2024-25 season, averaging 1.48 per game.

However, the Swedish striker’s move may hinge on Newcastle United being able to lure Benjamin Cesco to St. James’ Park.

Does Liverpool need Isak?

Liverpool’s forward line has been excellent in the 2024-25 season, but it’s worth remembering that all 29 of their league appearances were made by Mohamed Salah. Only two other players reached double figures in scoring last season, including Luis Diaz, who later moved to Bayern Munich.

Salah will also be sidelined due to the Africa Cup of Nations in December and January, potentially limiting their attacking output during crucial periods of the season.

Thus, while the forward position may not be a priority, signing Isak would address one in the short term. The 25-year-old Swede could be a future mainstay in Liverpool’s attack, while Salah, approaching 40, could see his performance levels decline in the coming years.