Liverpool target Alexander Isak as Reds prioritise new No.9 for 2025/26 season
Liverpool have made acquiring a new centre-forward a top priority ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, with Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak included on a five-man shortlist being actively considered by the club’s hierarchy.
According to The Athletic, the Reds are open to reshaping their frontline this summer, with Darwin Núñez attracting serious interest from Napoli and Saudi side Al-Hilal.
While Luis Díaz is also being monitored by Bayern Munich and Barcelona, sources indicate the Colombian is expected to remain at Anfield.
New sporting director Richard Hughes is spearheading the push for a new No.9 and has identified Isak as a potential long-term focal point for Arne Slot’s attack.
The shortlist also includes Hugo Ekitike, Viktor Gyökeres, Victor Osimhen and Nicolas Jackson.
However, developments elsewhere may thin the pool: Gyökeres is close to joining Arsenal, Ekitike is nearing a move to Newcastle, and Osimhen is negotiating a permanent switch to Galatasaray.
Isak, 25, is seen as an ideal fit due to his mobility, technical quality, and proven Premier League pedigree, having netted 21 goals for Newcastle last season.
In Liverpool’s first pre-season outing, Arne Slot trialled Federico Chiesa in a central attacking role, though the Italian is not seen as a permanent solution for the No.9 slot.
Recent signings Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez also featured in the second half of the friendly against Preston.
Liverpool are currently preparing for their pre-season tour of Asia, with upcoming matches scheduled against AC Milan in Hong Kong (July 26) and Yokohama F. Marinos in Japan (July 30).