The news of Newcastle United being interested in Hugo Ekitike has led the footballing world to wonder whether they are preparing for the departure of their current centre-forward. Liverpool’s interest in Alexander Isak has now progressed into an approach to the Magpies, though it won’t be easy to obtain their target.
Liverpool Make Approach for Alexander Isak Following Hugo Ekitike Rumours
No Formal Offer Submitted
Fabrizio Romano reports that Liverpool have made a “club to club approach” for Isak. David Ornstein, of The Athletic, reveals that no formal offer has been submitted as the Reds are aware of Newcastle’s stance against selling, though they have “communicated their interest” surrounding a deal of around £120 million for the striker.
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With the Geordies against selling their man described as “better than Mohamed Salah”, Liverpool also consider entering the Ekitike race if their first-choice target is not available (as per Romano). However, this puts Newcastle in a predicament: they also want to sign the French striker (submitting a bid yesterday) to play alongside Isak. Now, it appears that they will have to choose just one player to play at St James’ Park this coming season.
Alexander Isak is the Perfect Signing for Liverpool
With the departures of both Darwin Nunez and Federico Chiesa looking likely, Arne Slot will only have three forwards at his disposal: Salah, Cody Gakpo, and Luis Diaz. The latter could even be joining Bayern Munich. Therefore, Liverpool need to sign another forward, not only for depth but also as a strong central option: the three mentioned forwards are all naturally wide players.
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Isak fixes this problem, as he is a prolific striker. However, he is also perfect for Anfield as he fits the recurring theme of their forward players being versatile. Gakpo and Diaz both operate on the left-wing, and so one of the two will often play up-front when they share the field. Even Salah is capable of playing as a striker. This means that Slot could tactically switch Isak to the left-flank, either mid-way through a game if it is appropriate, or for periods in the season due to injuries or form.
Positions aside, the 25-year-old is an exceptional footballer, and if Liverpool manage to sign him, he will massively help their efforts towards a back-to-back league title.
