Liverpool ‘prepared to make big-money bid’ for striker who Gary Neville reckons is better than Erling Haaland
Liverpool are reportedly ready to smash their transfer record for a second time this summer, as their pursuit of Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak gathers momentum. The Reds, under new head coach Arne Slot, appear determined to reinforce their squad with elite-level talent and view Isak as the marquee signing who could spearhead their next era of success.
The Merseyside giants are already on the brink of confirming the blockbuster arrival of German sensation Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen. The 21-year-old attacking midfielder is expected to undergo his medical on Friday before being officially unveiled as a Liverpool player. The deal is said to be worth up to a staggering £116 million, with £100 million paid upfront and the remaining £16 million tied to performance-related add-ons—potentially making Wirtz the most expensive signing in British football history.
Slot, who succeeded Jürgen Klopp at the end of last season, has wasted little time reshaping his squad. Right-back Jeremie Frimpong has already joined from Leverkusen, and a deal for promising left-back Milos Kerkez is also nearing completion. But despite this early activity, Liverpool’s transfer window may be far from over—especially with several current players being linked with exits.
One of the most high-profile players facing an uncertain future is Darwin Núñez. The Uruguayan striker has attracted strong interest from Napoli, while clubs in the Saudi Pro League are also believed to be monitoring his situation closely. Should Núñez depart Anfield this summer, Liverpool would be left with a major gap up front—one they are seemingly prepared to fill by making a sensational move for Isak.
According to Give Me Sport, Liverpool are willing to table a “big-money bid” to lure Isak to Anfield. The club is reportedly prepared to offer £100 million plus additional bonuses, potentially eclipsing the total fee involved in the Wirtz transfer. This level of investment underscores just how highly Liverpool rate the 24-year-old Swedish forward, who has emerged as one of the Premier League’s most clinical and complete strikers.
Isak, who is under contract with Newcastle until 2028, has become the cornerstone of Eddie Howe’s team. The Magpies are under no financial pressure to sell, especially after securing Champions League qualification once again. In fact, it’s believed Newcastle would only consider parting ways with their prized asset if they receive a bid in the region of £150 million—making him one of the most expensive players in football history should a deal be struck.
Liverpool, however, are reportedly undeterred by the valuation. Sources claim the club is “willing to spend big” if they believe Isak is open to a move and that Newcastle would be receptive to negotiations. The Reds see him as the ideal frontman to lead their attack for years to come, combining technical excellence with composure in front of goal.
Isak’s reputation has soared over the past season. During a blistering run of form in the second half of the campaign, he scored eight goals in just six games, prompting high praise from football pundits. Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville, speaking on Sky Sports, remarked, “I think he is the best striker at this moment in time in the country. I watch Erling Haaland a lot—he’s world-class—but his overall play is nowhere near Isak’s level right now.”
Former Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher shared a similar view. “He is the best striker in the Premier League right now, and I don’t think it’s even close,” Carragher said. “He’s the real standout. He’s not just about goals. His touches, his movement, his intelligence—it’s all top-class. I remember watching him at Anfield a couple of years ago and thinking, ‘This kid has something special.’ When he’s in front of goal, there’s a calmness about him—you almost always expect him to score.”
With such ringing endorsements and Liverpool’s intent to go all in, a summer saga could be brewing between the Reds and the Magpies. Whether or not Newcastle budge on their valuation remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—Liverpool are not afraid to break the bank to secure the striker they believe can take them back to the top.