Latest developments
- Liverpool are prepared to test Newcastle United's resolve for Alexander Isak.
- Arne Slot highly rates the Sweden international.
- Liverpool are prepared to offer Darwin Nunez in a part-exchange deal.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (2.5/5): Potential player plus cash deal being suggested
Liverpool are keen on signing Alexander Isak and are prepared to offer Darwin Nunez in part-exchange to Newcastle United for their talisman. Nunez is no longer considered a long-term option for Arne Slot.
The story comes from Football Insider, who are keeping their source information close to their chest.
Value (3/5): Newcastle want £100m plus
Newcastle are expected to demand more than £100m for the 25-year-old, who is under contract at the club until June 2028. Liverpool, meanwhile, value Nunez at around £60m. Their aim is to lower the Magpies' asking price by offering the Uruguayan in a part exchange deal.
Suitability (3.5/5): Priority target
Isak has established himself as one of the most prolific number nines in the Premier League, having scored 17 goals this season. The technically proficient Swede's finishing ability and profile have made him Liverpool's “number one centre-forward target”.
Upgrade? (3.5/5): Better than Nunez
With Mo Salah set to depart Anfield, Slot needs a new talisman, and the likes of Nunez and Diogo Jota aren't considered good enough to shoulder such a responsibility. Isak, meanwhile, has shown at Newcastle that he could effectively lead the line.
More importantly, he is yet to reach his peak, and the way he is developing, expect the ex-Real Sociedad man to turn into one of the best forwards in the league.
Logic (3.5/5): Arsenal also in the mix
Even though Arsenal have also shown interest in Isak, Liverpool are in a better position under Slot to challenge for major trophies. Mikel Arteta would've to prepare a very charming pitch to lure Isak ahead of the Reds.
Whisper+ verdict: 16/25
Liverpool's interest in Isak has been widely reported but the relatively poor reputation of the source means it's tough to take the suggestion of a part exchange deal seriously at this stage.
