Liverpool Identify Alexander Isak as Leading Striker Target Ahead of 2025/26 Season

Liverpool have placed Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak at the top of a five-man shortlist as they intensify efforts to sign a new centre-forward ahead of the 2025/26 season.

According to The Athletic, the Merseyside club is actively reshaping its attacking options, with Darwin Núñez drawing strong interest from Napoli and Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal. Meanwhile, Luis Díaz is reportedly on the radar of Bayern Munich and Barcelona, although the Colombian is expected to stay at Anfield.

New sporting director Richard Hughes is leading the search for a new No.9, with Isak identified as a prime candidate to spearhead Arne Slot’s attack. The Swedish international impressed last season with 21 goals for Newcastle, earning praise for his pace, technical skill, and Premier League experience.

Other strikers on Liverpool’s radar include Hugo Ekitike, Viktor Gyökeres, Victor Osimhen, and Nicolas Jackson. However, several targets may soon be off the market: Gyökeres is nearing a deal with Arsenal, Ekitike is close to a move to Newcastle, and Osimhen is in talks with Galatasaray.

In their opening pre-season fixture, Arne Slot tested Federico Chiesa in a central role, though the Italian is not seen as a long-term solution. New signings Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez also made appearances during the match against Preston.

Liverpool will continue pre-season preparations on their upcoming Asia tour, with high-profile friendlies scheduled against AC Milan in Hong Kong on July 26 and Yokohama F. Marinos in Japan on July 30.