Liverpool boss Arne Slot has not ruled out a fresh attempt to sign Alexander Isak from Newcastle United, as the club explores ways to further bolster its attacking options following the likely departure of Darwin Nunez to Saudi Arabia.
Although Slot’s first transfer window at Anfield began with little fanfare, the club has since invested nearly £300 million ($402 million) to strengthen its frontline and defense.
Recent acquisitions include forwards Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike, along with full-backs Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong.
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With Nunez nearing a £46 million switch to Al Hilal, his exit is expected to help balance the financial books after Liverpool’s significant summer spending.
Reports suggest that Newcastle rejected a £110 million bid from Liverpool for Isak, demanding a British transfer record fee for the Swedish striker, who has been sidelined from pre-season training and instructed to train separately.
At a press conference ahead of Sunday’s Community Shield clash with Crystal Palace at Wembley, Slot addressed the ongoing speculation. “You never talk about players that are not yours,” Slot said.
“I think we have a lot of attacking power in our team. When I think about Cody Gakpo, Federico Chiesa, Hugo Ekitike, Mo Salah, Jeremie Frimpong, who can play as a right-winger, Florian Wirtz, who can play as a left-winger — I already feel I have a lot of attacking options in my current squad.
“But, as always as a club, we are always looking at the chances in the market.”
Meanwhile, Liverpool continues to mourn the tragic loss of Diogo Jota, who died in a car crash alongside his brother in northern Spain just as he was returning for pre-season duties.
The club recently celebrated its record-equalling 20th league title, but Jota’s death has cast a shadow over its preparations.
In memory of the Portuguese forward, the club will feature a “Forever 20” emblem on this season’s kits, a tribute to his retired jersey number. A permanent memorial will also be erected at Anfield in his honour.
“First of all, tragedy impacted us but it impacted far more his wife, children and parents,” said Slot.
“But it impacted us as well, definitely. The tributes that have been done since were all very emotional and impressive, every time we were somewhere.
“It started off in Preston and in Asia as well. It’s been emotional, but impressive as well.”
