Liverpool's Striker Hunt: Isak Alternatives and the Tactical Puzzle Klopp Must Solve

Liverpool’s Striker Conundrum: Beyond Isak

Recent reports from The Daily Mail confirm what many Anfield observers suspected - Liverpool’s pursuit of Newcastle’s Alexander Isak is far from straightforward. While the Swedish striker reportedly favors a move to Merseyside, Newcastle’s stance as reluctant sellers creates a classic transfer saga dilemma.

The Isak Impasse

The 24-year-old’s contract situation adds intrigue. With talks stalled (always a red flag in modern football economics), Isak finds himself at career crossroads. His 23 goals last season proved he can deliver in the Premier League - precisely why Jurgen Klopp sees him as ideal for Liverpool’s high-pressing system. But here’s the catch: when a player of his caliber hesitates on extending, clubs either cash in or risk diminishing returns.

The Backup Brigade

Liverpool’s scouting department has been characteristically busy, identifying four intriguing alternatives:

1. Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa): Proven PL performer with 19 goals last term. At 28, he offers immediate impact but lacks long-term project appeal.
2. Yoane Wissa (Brentford): The dark horse candidate. His versatility across the front line suits Klopp’s rotational needs.
3. Victor Osimhen (Napoli): The nuclear option. A potential €100m+ deal that might involve Darwin Núñez going the other way - tactical upgrade or sideways move?
4. Hugo Ekitike (Frankfurt): The wildcard. PSG cast-off showing flashes of brilliance in Bundesliga.

Data point: Among these, only Osimhen matched Isak’s non-penalty xG/90 (0.61) last season per FBref.

The Rodrygo Curveball

Madrid’s potential willingness to discuss Rodrygo adds another dimension. While not an out-and-out #9, the Brazilian’s 17 goal contributions last season and ability to play across the front three makes him tactically fascinating. At 23, he fits FSG’s preferred age profile perfectly.

Verdict: What Liverpool Really Needs

Beyond just goals, Klopp requires a forward who can:

• Press relentlessly (Isak: 18.7 pressures/90)
• Link play (Watkins edges others here)
• Convert big chances (Osimhen: 28% conversion rate)

The smart money? A two-pronged approach: secure Watkins for short-term stability while developing Ekitike. But in today’s inflated market, even ‘backup options’ come with starter prices.