Liverpool are scouring the market for the best No.9s as they get ready to sell Darwin Nunez with Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak their top target.
This season, Isak has shown the world that he’s not just good but that he is one of the very best in his position. Not only did he win the Carabao Cup final against none other than Liverpool but he has 27 goals and six assists.
In comparison, Liverpool are getting ready to bid farewell to Nunez after a failed £85m gamble. The Uruguayan is frustrating because he is so talented but for whatever reason is unable to make good on his gift.
This season, the former Benfica star has just seven goals and seven assists. A good return but not for a club record signing
However, Isak remains out of reach for Liverpool and they will not sign him unless Newcastle United are willing to accept a fee lower than their current £150million valuation.
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Liverpool could sign Victor Osimhen or Victor Gyokeres if Isak deal does not materialise
According to a report from TBR Football and Graeme Bailey, Liverpool have contingencies in case they are unable to find a way to negotiate with Newcastle for Isak.
“Liverpool are looking at Victor Osimhen and Viktor Gyokeres as possible alternatives to Alexander Isak this summer,” Bailey reports
Osimhen “wants to move to England this summer and now the list of clubs potentially available to the 26-year-old is increasing.”
His release clause is set at £60m but Liverpool will need to beat the likes of Manchester United and Arsenal to his signature which should be no problem after winning the Premier League.
Jose Mourinho said last year that along with Mo Salah, Osimhen is one of “the best African players” and is on par with the likes of Drogba, Eto’o and Weah.
Liverpool also looking at Victor Gyokeres
Bailey adds: “In addition to Osimhen, Liverpool are also doing their due diligence on Gyokeres at Sporting CP, a striker with an extraordinary goalscoring record
While it’s not that long since Roberto Firmino left the club in 2023, the Reds are in need of a lethal No.9.
Under Arne Slot, the need for a top striker is more pronounced than it was under Jurgen Klopp. The German manager relied on fast breaks and turnovers to create chances most of the time which meant wingers were the true strength in his side.
Under Slot, who relies on patient buildup and control a lot more than Klopp, a top striker is essential as Liverpool are facing more and more low blocks to counter their incisive and dominant style of play.
Someone like Isak would be a dream but so long as Liverpool sign a striker with a vastly more clinical eye for goal than Nunez, they will have an increased efficiency in front of goal