Isak & Barcola: The Latest on Liverpool’s Attacking Plans

Liverpool are expected to strengthen their attacking options following the imminent departure of Darwin Núñez.

Any incoming forward, whether Alexander Isak, Bradley Barcola or another, must be of sufficient quality to start immediately. Crucially, Liverpool will only pursue Isak further if a deal becomes genuinely attainable.

Isak the Priority

Liverpool saw their opening bid of £110 million for Alexander Isak rejected by Newcastle, who continue to insist the striker is not for sale. Despite this, Fabrizio Romano reports that Liverpool have a new proposal ready.

Isak is understood to be eager to leave and has expressed a desire to join Liverpool. He returned to training on Monday after missing the club’s pre-season tour of Asia and has reportedly been isolated from the group by manager Eddie Howe, suggesting tensions behind the scenes.

Barcola as the Alternative

If Newcastle maintain their stance on Isak, Bradley Barcola is viewed internally at Liverpool as the ideal alternative. Paris Saint-Germain are believed to want around €100 million (£86.8 million) for the French winger.

However, Liverpool will not sign both. Isak remains the clear priority.

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Núñez Exit Imminent

Darwin Núñez is set to join Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal in a deal worth an initial £46 million, with further add-ons. The striker has agreed personal terms and is set to sign a long-term contract once he completes his medical.

According to Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg, Núñez will earn around €15 million (£13.1 million) net per year, excluding bonuses.

Interest from Saudi Arabia dates back to January, when Liverpool turned down a £60 million offer from Al-Nassr as they remained focused on the Premier League title. Núñez originally signed for Liverpool in June 2022 from Benfica for an initial £64 million.

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Premier League Clubs Eye Doak

Ben Doak is attracting interest from several Premier League clubs following a strong loan spell at Middlesbrough in the Championship last season.

Earlier in the window, Nottingham Forest, Everton, Bournemouth, Wolves, and West Ham were all linked with the winger.

Now, according to James Pearce, Leeds United have joined the race.

Liverpool turned down offers of around £20 million for Doak in January and continue to value him in that region. Unless a bid meets their valuation, the club are happy to retain him as a squad option.