Fenway Sports Group (FSG), Liverpool`s owners, were once frequently criticized for their perceived cautious approach to strengthening the first team. Who would level such accusations against the club`s ownership now? Certainly not Liverpool supporters. However, it`s clear that many rival clubs have observed with frustration the Reds` aggressive moves in the transfer market, securing not just depth but players with the potential to help Arne Slot win more silverware in the coming years.
Having comfortably won the Premier League title last season, Liverpool will begin the 2025/26 campaign as defending champions. Each new season brings its own set of variables and challenges, but while pre-season predictions are often unreliable, many expect the Reds to be strong contenders for the title once more.
While fans are excited about three new additions secured in recent weeks, Liverpool is reportedly still pursuing several other players.
Alexander Isak is a name often mentioned, as Liverpool need a new striker, but it seems unlikely that Arne Slot will manage to sign the Swedish star.
Update on Liverpool`s striker search
Liverpool is reportedly trying to sell Darwin Nunez, engaging in negotiations with Serie A champions Napoli. However, the two clubs are reportedly struggling to agree on a transfer fee. If the Uruguayan forward departs, Liverpool will need to sign a replacement, especially considering Slot`s apparent disappointment with the inconsistent performances from both Nunez and Diogo Jota last season.
While Alexander Isak would be a dream signing, the Newcastle United talisman`s £200m valuation makes him prohibitively expensive. This has led to other names being linked, with Sporting Lisbon`s Viktor Gyokeres and Eintracht Frankfurt forward Hugo Ekitike both reportedly of interest to Liverpool.
Liverpool needs to make the right decision, securing a goalscorer capable of leading the attack towards winning titles for many years. However, the signing must be financially sound; FSG will want good value for their investment.
Despite this, Liverpool have completed the British-record £116m signing of Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen. The German midfielder is expected to significantly elevate the team`s play, potentially benefiting whichever striker the club brings in.
However, there is another player whose name hasn`t received as much attention as those mentioned previously, but who is reportedly a strong candidate and could turn out to be Liverpool`s most exciting acquisition of the summer transfer window.
Liverpool`s Alternative to Isak Shortlisted
According to Sky Germany`s Florian Plettenberg, Liverpool has added Napoli striker Victor Osimhen to their shortlist as they prepare for the potential sale of Nunez.
Although Napoli is interested in acquiring Liverpool`s number nine, any potential deal for Osimhen would be separate. Osimhen is widely expected to leave Napoli this summer following previous issues and strained relationships with the club.
The 26-year-old may have some perceived weaknesses, but he is undoubtedly an elite goalscorer. He is reportedly available for a lower fee than targets like Ekitike and Isak, with previous reports suggesting a price tag in the region of £64m.
What Victor Osimhen Could Offer Liverpool
While the specifics of his recent season might be debated, Osimhen demonstrated his prolific scoring ability last season, netting 37 goals in 41 appearances across all competitions and contributing significantly to Napoli`s league title victory.
