Liverpool Eye Alexander Isak Despite Ekitike Arrival – Could Diaz Be the Casualty?
Liverpool are reportedly monitoring Alexander Isak’s situation at Newcastle United, even after splashing over £200 million this summer—including the recent signing of Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt to bolster their No. 9 options.
Ekitike was seen by many as Liverpool’s alternative to Isak, given the Swedish striker’s steep price tag and difficulty to prise away from Newcastle. However, with reports suggesting that Isak is now open to a new challenge, speculation over a potential Anfield move has reignited.
Slot’s Attacking Conundrum
Arne Slot now faces a potential selection dilemma. If Liverpool push ahead with a move for Isak—expected to cost over £100 million—it could force a positional reshuffle. Florian Wirtz, another big-money arrival, is expected to operate behind the striker, making it unlikely Slot would deploy Isak in a deeper role.
That means either Ekitike or Isak would have to shift out wide. Ekitike has experience playing from the left, but that raises fresh doubts over Luis Díaz’s future.
Diaz Unsettled?
The Colombian winger, linked heavily with Bayern Munich, has not yet entered contract talks with Liverpool. While the club insists Diaz isn’t for sale, his recent comments suggest he’s leaving the door open:
“I’m very calm where I am and very happy… but I’ll make the best decision for me.”
Bayern are expected to return with an improved bid, and if Liverpool choose to pursue Isak, Diaz’s exit could help balance the books. A fee north of £60 million for the winger would significantly reduce the financial burden of signing the Newcastle star.
Two Paths Forward
Liverpool’s hierarchy appears to have two clear options:
- Stick with both: Sign Isak, keep Ekitike, and rotate them up front—accepting that one will be benched most weeks.
- Restructure: Bring in Isak as the primary striker, push Ekitike wide, and allow Diaz to leave—either now or in January.
Team Taking Shape
Beyond the attacking shake-up, Liverpool’s squad is beginning to settle. Ryan Gravenberch has asserted himself in midfield alongside Alexis Mac Allister. At the back, Virgil van Dijk remains a rock, with Ibrahima Konaté—despite ongoing uncertainty—still key to the centre-back pairing.
New full-backs Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez will need time to gel, but Slot’s tactical evolution is clearly underway.
With the Isak rumours gaining traction, all eyes now turn to whether Liverpool will double down on their attacking overhaul—or risk disrupting the balance they’ve just begun to rebuild.
