Liverpool have reportedly decided that they will consider alternatives to Alexander Isak if a deal cannot be struck with Newcastle United next week.
The Reds secured all three points on the opening day of the Premier League season against Bournemouth on Friday, winning 4-2 at Anfield despite initially surrendering a 2-0 lead.
Though the champions scored four times, they have been strongly linked with Newcastle striker Isak, who is said to be their number one target.
The summer transfer window's end is fast approaching, with the September 1 deadline putting pressure on clubs to finalise their business.
With the start of September looming, Sacha Tavolieri has claimed that the Merseysiders will be open to other attacking targets if no deal is agreed with Newcastle next week, with links to Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola persisting.
Newcastle United's Alexander Isak pictured on April 2, 2025
Should Liverpool move on from Alexander Isak?
Liverpool's offensive players excelled against Bournemouth, and after also scoring in the Community Shield against Crystal Palace on August 10, striker Hugo Ekitike looks like he has adapted to life on Merseyside.
The 23-year-old's development could be put at risk if Isak was signed given the Newcastle man would almost certainly claim the starting number nine spot, so perhaps the Reds should reconsider their priorities.
There is an argument that the club would be better served if they focused on defensive reinforcements considering they have looked vulnerable during counter-attacks, though a deal for Palace's Marc Guehi is rumoured to be getting closer.
Boss Arne Slot does still need to sign at least one attacking player if he is to help his side retain their Premier League title, especially as Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz have both been sold.
Alexander Isak in action for Newcastle United on May 25, 2025
Would Bradley Barcola be a good alternative this summer transfer window?
Isak would likely force Ekitike to play as a left-winger, but the addition of PSG attacker Barcola would allow the current Liverpool number nine to remain in a central position.
Barcola has predominantly played from the left during his career, and his tenacity, pace and creativity could make him a suitable Diaz replacement.
The Frenchman is not as prolific as Isak, with the 22-year-old's tally of 14 league goals in 2024-25 the most he has ever produced in a single season.
Isak scored 23 goals in the Premier League last term - the second consecutive top-flight campaign that he netted at over 20 league goals - and some have labelled him the best striker in England.
If Liverpool are planning for a future without talisman Mohamed Salah, they will need to replace his goals, and the 25-year-old Swede would help mitigate the Egyptian's eventual exit.
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