Liverpool are poised to be one of the biggest players in the summer transfer market, with Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak emerging as a top target.
The Swedish international has been in sensational form this season, playing a pivotal role in Newcastle’s Carabao Cup triumph, which ended their 70-year wait for a domestic title – a run that included a crucial goal against Liverpool in the final.
His performances have attracted widespread interest, and Newcastle have reportedly set a massive £150m price tag on their star striker.
However, Liverpool have made it clear that they are not willing to meet those demands.
Liverpool unlikely to break Premier League record for Isak
According to The Athletic, Liverpool have no plans to pay £150m for Isak, as the club prefers to spread their transfer budget across multiple positions rather than committing to a single marquee signing.
With at least five new signings planned this summer, Liverpool need to be strategic in their spending, particularly given that Trent Alexander-Arnold is expected to join Real Madrid, creating further gaps in the squad.
While the centre-forward position is a key area for investment, spending the bulk of the budget on one player could hinder efforts to strengthen other parts of the squad.
Newcastle are in a strong negotiating position, and even if Isak pushes for a move, Liverpool are unlikely to be drawn into a bidding war.
Why Liverpool desperately need a new striker
Liverpool’s interest in a new no.9 is unsurprising, as the club needs a more clinical, all-round centre-forward to compete at the highest level.
Darwin Núñez has been a high-energy, chaotic presence in Liverpool’s attack, but his erratic finishing and decision-making have frustrated fans and coaching staff alike.
While he offers pace, power, and pressing ability, he has missed key chances in crucial games, raising concerns about his long-term reliability as Liverpool’s first-choice striker.
Diogo Jota, while more clinical than Núñez, has struggled with injuries and lacks the physical presence to consistently lead the line as a lone striker.
He thrives as a poacher and secondary forward but isn’t the traditional no.9 Liverpool need to anchor their attack.
With Mohamed Salah’s future uncertain and Liverpool’s forward line in transition, securing an elite goal-scoring no.9 is crucial. Isak’s intelligent movement, technical quality, and lethal finishing make him an ideal target – but not at a record-breaking price.
While Liverpool remain interested in a striker of Isak’s calibre, they are likely to explore more financially viable options in their pursuit of a long-term centre-forward solution.