Liverpool Eyes Alexander Isak as Next Target Following Hugo Ekitike Pursuit

This summer has already established itself as a period filled with transfer drama, and Alexander Isak may well become the central talking point for what remains of the window.

The Newcastle United forward has been consistently connected with potential moves to Arsenal and Liverpool, though both Premier League powerhouses have shifted their focus to other attacking options after being deterred by the Magpies. Arsenal are nearing completion of a deal for Viktor Gyökeres, while Liverpool have already invested heavily in Hugo Ekitiké.

Nevertheless, recent reports have disclosed that Isak desires to depart St. James' Park this summer and shows no interest in signing a new contract with the Tynesiders, creating ripples throughout the transfer market.

Predictably, connections with former admirers Liverpool have emerged again, but following Ekitiké's signing and substantial spending elsewhere this summer, would the Reds contemplate rekindling their pursuit of Isak?

Alexander Isak to Liverpool Links

Liverpool recognized from the start that acquiring a new striker this summer was essential. Darwin Núñez's exit still appears probable despite some promising pre-season displays, and the Reds understood that a lethal No. 9 could be game-changing.

Isak naturally appeared on their shortlist following another outstanding scoring season with Newcastle, and the Reds allegedly submitted a record-breaking bid for the 25-year-old in early July. They expressed interest in structuring a deal valued around £120 million ($161.2 million), but their overtures were swiftly rejected by the Magpies, who made it crystal clear that Isak would remain this summer.

Liverpool subsequently chose to explore other options and swiftly finalized an agreement with Eintracht Frankfurt for Ekitiké—a striker Newcastle had also coveted.

How Much Have Liverpool Spent This Summer?

Liverpool's acquisition of Ekitiké represented another marquee signing this summer. Transfers for fullbacks Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez cost the Reds £69.5 million ($93.4 million), while prospect Ármin Pécsi contributed an additional £1.5 million ($2 million) to their summer expenditure. Nevertheless, their largest investment has been Florian Wirtz, whom they secured from Bayer Leverkusen for an astronomical £116 million ($155.9 million).

The Reds paid £100 million ($134.4 million) upfront for the German talent, with an additional £16 million ($21.5 million) in potential bonuses, and they structured a comparable arrangement for Ekitiké. The former Paris-Saint Germain striker cost the Reds £79 million ($106.2 million) in total, though £10 million ($13.4 million) of that figure consists of add-ons. Liverpool also finalized their £29 million ($39 million) deal for Giorgi Mamardashvili this summer despite announcing the transfer last year.

Liverpool have invested a staggering amount in revitalizing their squad this summer and, including add-ons, their total expenditure has reached £295 million ($396.4 million)—the highest among all Premier League clubs during the current window.

Could Liverpool Still Afford Alexander Isak?

Liverpool may have already invested a massive sum, but their conservative approach last summer will benefit them should they choose to pursue Isak. According to The Athletic, the Reds' revenue capacity and decision to avoid heavy spending before Slot's inaugural season means they can still acquire the Sweden international while adhering to profit and sustainability regulations (PSR).

Naturally, Liverpool will still hope to generate revenue through player departures before the window closes. They have already sold Jarell Quansah and Caoimhín Kelleher for a combined £53 million ($71.2 million), while the exits of Nat Phillips and Trent Alexander-Arnold have brought another £13 million ($17.5 million) into their coffers.

Luis Díaz, Darwin Núñez and Harvey Elliott are among the prominent names who could still depart for substantial fees, while peripheral players such as Kostas Tsimikas, Wataru Endo and Federico Chiesa could generate income. The sale of academy prospects is also feasible, with Ben Doak and Tyler Morton among those connected with departures.

Should Liverpool Move for Alexander Isak?

Simply because Liverpool could presumably afford Alexander Isak this summer doesn't guarantee they will sign the Newcastle star. After all, they have just brought in an exciting, young striker who possesses similar qualities to the Swede, and a fee of £120–150 million could still discourage them from pursuing a deal.

However, it seems like this could be Liverpool's only chance. They will probably never have a superior opportunity to sign the former Real Sociedad player, and were they to complete a transfer, they would be securing one of the world's finest strikers—and someone with room for further development.

It may represent an opportunity too attractive to pass up for Liverpool, particularly if other interested parties—notably their competitors—enter the competition.