By Martin Graham
Liverpool has completed the capture of forward Alexander Isak from Newcastle United in a move worth £125 million, setting a new British transfer benchmark for the second time this summer.
Following their Premier League triumph last season, the Reds have invested heavily in the squad. Florian Wirtz arrived from Bayer Leverkusen for £116 million, while Hugo Ekitiké, Milos Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong, Giovanni Leoni, Ármin Pécsi, and Freddie Woodman have all joined Arne Slot’s side.
The pursuit of Isak began earlier in the window when Liverpool tabled an opening £110 million proposal, sparking a dramatic standoff between the player and his former club. Newcastle issued a strong response after the Swede expressed his desire to move, but progress was made once the Magpies brought in Nick Woltemade from Stuttgart as a replacement.
Isak speaks on his move
After sealing his switch to Anfield, Isak voiced his excitement and ambition.
“It’s been a long journey to get here. But I’m super happy to be a part of this team, this club, and everything it stands for. It’s something I’m proud of, and I’m really looking forward to it. I think I have a lot to give, I think I have a lot to improve. I’m a striker, but I always want to give as much as possible to the team, mainly goals but much more than that as well,” he stated.
The 25-year-old underlined his determination to collect silverware, saying: “I want to win everything. Yeah, [as simple as that]. I’m just happy it’s done and that I can get back to work. I’m looking forward to seeing my teammates and the fans and getting back out there.”
Squad reshaped under Slot
Liverpool’s spending now exceeds £400 million this summer, marking the most costly window ever by a single club. Manager Arne Slot had stressed the importance of signing a center forward after the exits of Darwin Núñez and Luis Díaz.
Asked whether Isak’s arrival could affect Hugo Ekitiké’s role, Slot confirmed he intends to use both forwards together. Ekitiké has already started strongly with three goals and one assist from four matches and could now form a striking partnership with Isak, who scored 54 Premier League goals during his spell with Newcastle.
