Liverpool have reportedly cooled their pursuit of Newcastle United star Alexander Isak and are now prioritizing more cost-effective options up front. As of June 25, 2025, the Premier League champions — under manager Arne Slot — have turned their attention toward Sporting CP’s prolific Viktor Gyökeres after already spending £185.5 million this summer on Florian Wirtz (£116m), Milos Kerkez (£40m), and Jeremie Frimpong (£29.5m).
Newcastle’s staggering £150–200 million valuation of Isak, 25, has proven too steep for the Reds, especially after the Swede enjoyed a brilliant 2024/25 campaign, scoring 27 goals and registering six assists across 42 appearances. With 23 goals, 87 successful dribbles, and 56 key passes in the Premier League alone, Isak was seen as a perfect fit for Slot’s attacking system — and sources suggested he was also keen to play alongside Mohamed Salah and Wirtz. However, Newcastle have stood firm after rejecting a £61 million bid and showing little interest in selling him, forcing Liverpool to reconsider their plans.
Instead, attention has shifted to the more affordable Gyökeres, who notched an impressive 43 goals and 15 assists in 50 matches for Sporting last term. Available at around £70–80 million, Gyökeres fits Liverpool’s financial profile better after their heavy summer spending. Hugo Ekitike (Eintracht Frankfurt), Benjamin Šeško (RB Leipzig), and Victor Osimhen (Napoli) also feature on their shortlist, with Ekitike making waves in talks with his representatives. The urgency to bolster their frontline is partly driven by Darwin Núñez’s potential move to Napoli and persistent rumors surrounding Federico Chiesa’s exit.
The Reds’ pragmatic shift signals a more sustainable transfer policy after parting with Jarell Quansah for £35 million. Fans are split — some disappointed to miss out on the proven Premier League qualities of Isak, while others view Gyökeres as an exciting, value-driven alternative. With the 2025/26 season on the horizon and a Premier League title defense to mount alongside European ambitions, Liverpool’s next attacking signing will be crucial to sustaining their competitive edge.
