Liverpool have made Alexander Isak their primary target as they continue to work through their list of transfer priorities, with a fresh development emerging in the ongoing pursuit.
The Reds are systematically addressing their needs in the transfer market, although securing a new number nine appears to be the most challenging task ahead.
While there is optimism that Darwin Nunez will complete a move to Napoli—freeing up both funds and space on the wage bill to help avoid any Profit and Sustainability Rule concerns—this has not prevented Liverpool from making preparations for his successor.
Three strikers are currently under serious consideration, with detailed reports drawn up on Victor Osimhen, Hugo Ekitike, and Alexander Isak, as the club evaluates each player’s attributes.
Liverpool’s Move for Alexander Isak Encounters Fresh Setback
Liverpool are willing to exceed the £100 million mark in their bid to sign Alexander Isak, which would see them surpass the transfer fee they committed to landing Florian Wirtz. A fresh development has now emerged in their pursuit of the Swedish forward.
Sky Sports reporter Kaveh Solhekol has revealed that Newcastle United have suffered a setback in their efforts to replace Isak. He stated: “Chelsea have agreed a deal worth up to £60 million for Brighton forward Joao Pedro.
“The 23-year-old has accepted personal terms on a seven-year contract and is set to fly from Brazil to the USA for a medical ahead of joining Enzo Maresca’s squad for the Club World Cup.
“Pedro will be able to play for Chelsea at the tournament, as clubs are allowed to register players between June 27 and July 3. The Blues view Pedro as a versatile forward who can play as a No. 9 and across the front line.
“Newcastle had also been interested in Pedro and had a bid of around £50m rejected last week. It is understood Pedro only wanted to play for Chelsea.”
Newcastle made a triple signing last week, suggesting they were preparing for a future without Alexander Isak. However, their plans have been derailed after missing out on Joao Pedro, effectively taking them back to the drawing board.
Few clubs are financially equipped to afford the 25-year-old striker, who is widely regarded as one of Europe’s top talents in his position. This gives Liverpool a potential edge in the race, with limited competition likely to emerge.
Although there’s no immediate urgency to seal a deal for Isak, Arne Slot will require additional firepower if Darwin Nunez departs. That said, replacing the seven goals Nunez contributed last season should not pose a major challenge.
The issue, however, lies in Newcastle’s current lack of a viable successor, which complicates Liverpool’s pursuit and resets their efforts, as the Magpies are unlikely to part with their star forward without having a replacement lined up.
The Short Term Bosman Solution to Isak Pursuit
Harvey Elliott’s standout displays at the European Under-21 Championship are likely to draw attention from other clubs, especially in a midfield area where Liverpool already have ample depth.
If he were to be sold, the Reds wouldn’t necessarily need to bring in a direct replacement, and the £40 million or more generated from his departure could instead be redirected towards signing a forward. Jonathan David, despite reported talks with Juventus, has yet to finalise a move elsewhere, and his availability on a free transfer enhances his appeal.
His salary demands would be lower than the combined wages of Nunez and Elliott, and the funds from both potential sales could be set aside until next summer, when Liverpool might move for Isak without needing to spend close to £200 million.
By exercising patience, Liverpool could address their No.9 issue with a high-quality addition who would add competition and depth to the squad in the following campaign.
There’s no need for Liverpool to rush into buying a second- or third-choice striker simply because Newcastle are unwilling to sell Isak this summer.
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