12 hours ago
Two starts are hashing it out to be Liverpool's new striker this season. But who will Andoni Iraola pick?
Liverpool are unfortunately light at centre-forward, despite spending over £200m on the role last summer. Injuries are the problem, naturally.
Alexander Isak endured an incredibly difficult debut campaign at Anfield where he struggled to find fitness before breaking his leg. It meant we never saw anything like the best of Liverpool's record signing and it's difficult to know what to expect in 2026/27.
A pre-season under his belt will surely help Isak enormously and perhaps fix all the problems. But it's still difficult to believe that Liverpool can entirely rely on him next season.
Which is a problem because Hugo Ekitike will miss around half the season at least. His achilles injury keeps him out long-term and, worryingly, we won't know what state he'll be in when he's back.
#Liverpool #isak #know #injuries
Liverpool are unfortunately light at centre-forward, despite spending over £200m on the role last summer. Injuries are the problem, naturally.
Alexander Isak endured an incredibly difficult debut campaign at Anfield where he struggled to find fitness before breaking his leg. It meant we never saw anything like the best of Liverpool's record signing and it's difficult to know what to expect in 2026/27.
A pre-season under his belt will surely help Isak enormously and perhaps fix all the problems. But it's still difficult to believe that Liverpool can entirely rely on him next season.
Which is a problem because Hugo Ekitike will miss around half the season at least. His achilles injury keeps him out long-term and, worryingly, we won't know what state he'll be in when he's back.
#Liverpool #isak #know #injuries
7 days ago
Andoni Iraola has started where any sensible head coach starts, with the calendar, the workload and the reality of modern football. Liverpool are in pre-season, the squad is split by summer commitments and the new man at Anfield has made it clear there will be no rush with players returning from the World Cup.
The key names are obvious. Florian Wirtz, Alexander Isak and Ryan Gravenberch are expected to link up with the squad in the United States during the second week of the tour. That gives Iraola time to get them into the group, and more importantly, time to get them physically right.
He put it plainly: “The three players (Gravenberch, Isak and Wirtz) that are going to join us are going to be [in the] second week fully with us.” That is the headline. Clear enough, no spin, no fake mystery.
Liverpool’s World Cup players were knocked out between June 29 and 30, which left some room for interpretation over whether they would return midway through the US trip. Iraola has now shut that down with a structured plan. He said, “The ones that were [eliminated] from the World Cup, they all – because of different reasons – have individual days for their arrivals, but I think the sooner we can start working with them and they can understand what we want from them the better.”
That matters. New ideas take repetition. New pressing triggers, distances, and responsibilities do not appear by magic. Iraola has already spoken to the players individually and said, “Individually I talked with the three of them, they know the main things, but I am looking forward to having them here with the group and to go slowly, slowly with recovering bodies [to the squad].”
#wirtz
The key names are obvious. Florian Wirtz, Alexander Isak and Ryan Gravenberch are expected to link up with the squad in the United States during the second week of the tour. That gives Iraola time to get them into the group, and more importantly, time to get them physically right.
He put it plainly: “The three players (Gravenberch, Isak and Wirtz) that are going to join us are going to be [in the] second week fully with us.” That is the headline. Clear enough, no spin, no fake mystery.
Liverpool’s World Cup players were knocked out between June 29 and 30, which left some room for interpretation over whether they would return midway through the US trip. Iraola has now shut that down with a structured plan. He said, “The ones that were [eliminated] from the World Cup, they all – because of different reasons – have individual days for their arrivals, but I think the sooner we can start working with them and they can understand what we want from them the better.”
That matters. New ideas take repetition. New pressing triggers, distances, and responsibilities do not appear by magic. Iraola has already spoken to the players individually and said, “Individually I talked with the three of them, they know the main things, but I am looking forward to having them here with the group and to go slowly, slowly with recovering bodies [to the squad].”
#wirtz
14 days ago
BBC Radio Newcastle's Matthew Raisbeck and former Magpies defender John Anderson have been discussing the speculation around the future of Bruno Guimaraes after he told Newcastle United he wishes to explore a move to Premier League rivals **** nal.
"The truth is, I don't know what's going to happen and you're right to reiterate what we know about Newcastle's position, which is they are not inviting offers for their captain and most influential player. They want him to stay, they don't want to sell him," Raisbeck said.
"But as we learned last year, particularly with Alexander Isak, a player not being for sale doesn't mean they won't leave the club.
"If **** nal want him, they will have to pay the money. And I think there will be a big difference between Newcastle's high, but quite rightly high, valuation of Bruno financially, and what **** nal may or may not be prepared to pay.
"His influence on Newcastle is massive. Would he have the same level responsibility and same role at **** nal? But then it's a move to a club that's just won the **** le that will probably nearly always be in the Champions League, will be competing for honours.
"The truth is, I don't know what's going to happen and you're right to reiterate what we know about Newcastle's position, which is they are not inviting offers for their captain and most influential player. They want him to stay, they don't want to sell him," Raisbeck said.
"But as we learned last year, particularly with Alexander Isak, a player not being for sale doesn't mean they won't leave the club.
"If **** nal want him, they will have to pay the money. And I think there will be a big difference between Newcastle's high, but quite rightly high, valuation of Bruno financially, and what **** nal may or may not be prepared to pay.
"His influence on Newcastle is massive. Would he have the same level responsibility and same role at **** nal? But then it's a move to a club that's just won the **** le that will probably nearly always be in the Champions League, will be competing for honours.
16 days ago
The 2025-26 season will be one that Newcastle United fans would like to forget about in a hurry. Disappointing Premier League performances eventually saw the Magpies conclude the campaign in 12th place, which quickly led to questions surrounding Eddie Howe’s long-term future at the club.
However, the Public Investment Fund gave its backing to the Englishman, indicating that a return to the Champions League would be the primary target for the 2026-27 season.
The departures of major stars could negatively impact Newcastle’s European aspirations before the season even gets underway, similarly to the way that the Alexander Isak transfer saga last summer derailed any kind of bid for momentum at the start of the campaign.
Warning signs are already flashing, with the best betting sites and odds currently listing the Magpies as a 10/1 chance to finish in the top four of the Premier League in 2026-27.
In truth, Newcastle have got good money for offloading players, with £80 million being spent by Barcelona on Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali departing for £100 million. Bruno Guimaraes could yet join the regular starters out of the exit door, with the Magpies demanding £80 million for the club captain.
However, the Public Investment Fund gave its backing to the Englishman, indicating that a return to the Champions League would be the primary target for the 2026-27 season.
The departures of major stars could negatively impact Newcastle’s European aspirations before the season even gets underway, similarly to the way that the Alexander Isak transfer saga last summer derailed any kind of bid for momentum at the start of the campaign.
Warning signs are already flashing, with the best betting sites and odds currently listing the Magpies as a 10/1 chance to finish in the top four of the Premier League in 2026-27.
In truth, Newcastle have got good money for offloading players, with £80 million being spent by Barcelona on Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali departing for £100 million. Bruno Guimaraes could yet join the regular starters out of the exit door, with the Magpies demanding £80 million for the club captain.
17 days ago
Mohamed Salah's departure from the club has left the door open for Liverpool to go and sign another elite right winger. But replacing the goals and ******* ists isn't that simple.
However, the Reds may already possess the player capable of becoming the team's new focal point.
Alexander Isak has shown he can produce top levels of goalscoring in England, netting 54 times in 86 appearances during his spell at Newcastle United.
There are very few players in the world capable of consistently delivering the numbers that Salah has provided over the last eight seasons.
In this current market Liverpool could be made to pay upwards of £100m for an attacker who may fall well short of the Egyptian's output.
However, the Reds may already possess the player capable of becoming the team's new focal point.
Alexander Isak has shown he can produce top levels of goalscoring in England, netting 54 times in 86 appearances during his spell at Newcastle United.
There are very few players in the world capable of consistently delivering the numbers that Salah has provided over the last eight seasons.
In this current market Liverpool could be made to pay upwards of £100m for an attacker who may fall well short of the Egyptian's output.
18 days ago
Newcastle United may have insisted that Bruno Guimaraes is not available for transfer this summer, but the club are reportedly preparing a contingency plan in case they are eventually forced to sell the midfielder.
Arsenal are continuing their efforts to add Guimaraes to their squad during this transfer window, and the Gunners believe they have several reasons to remain optimistic about completing a deal. One of those factors is the midfielder's reported willingness to hold talks and reach an agreement with the Gunners.
The Magpies regard Guimaraes as one of the most important players in their squad. However, having previously lost players such as Alexander Isak and Sandro Tonali, they understand that circumstances can change and are preparing for every possibility.
According to Sport Witness, Newcastle are considering a move for Danilo Santos from Botafogo if Guimaraes leaves before the transfer window closes.
The report states that **** nal are preparing to submit a significant formal offer for Guimaraes in the coming days. If the Brazilian departs, Newcastle view the former Nottingham Forest player as the preferred option to strengthen their midfield.
Arsenal are continuing their efforts to add Guimaraes to their squad during this transfer window, and the Gunners believe they have several reasons to remain optimistic about completing a deal. One of those factors is the midfielder's reported willingness to hold talks and reach an agreement with the Gunners.
The Magpies regard Guimaraes as one of the most important players in their squad. However, having previously lost players such as Alexander Isak and Sandro Tonali, they understand that circumstances can change and are preparing for every possibility.
According to Sport Witness, Newcastle are considering a move for Danilo Santos from Botafogo if Guimaraes leaves before the transfer window closes.
The report states that **** nal are preparing to submit a significant formal offer for Guimaraes in the coming days. If the Brazilian departs, Newcastle view the former Nottingham Forest player as the preferred option to strengthen their midfield.
18 days ago
Fernando Torres is without doubt one of the best strikers to grace Liverpool with his presence in their recent history.
El Nino, as he was known, was one of the main reasons why the Reds were feared during that era with his £50 million transfer to Chelsea breaking the hearts of every single fan.
However, shortly after his exit, Luis Suarez entered the frame and filled the void left by the Spaniard more than well enough.
Admittedly, fans will have probably expected Alexander Isak to be their next big thing in attack but, after a season full of injuries, he still needs to prove his worth to the Reds' fanbase.
Indeed, Hugo Ekitike managed to fill the void before his injury as he contributed to 23 goals across all competitions, but, since he's out injured until who knows when, it's hardly surprising to think that Liverpool will want to bring in a new attacker or two.
El Nino, as he was known, was one of the main reasons why the Reds were feared during that era with his £50 million transfer to Chelsea breaking the hearts of every single fan.
However, shortly after his exit, Luis Suarez entered the frame and filled the void left by the Spaniard more than well enough.
Admittedly, fans will have probably expected Alexander Isak to be their next big thing in attack but, after a season full of injuries, he still needs to prove his worth to the Reds' fanbase.
Indeed, Hugo Ekitike managed to fill the void before his injury as he contributed to 23 goals across all competitions, but, since he's out injured until who knows when, it's hardly surprising to think that Liverpool will want to bring in a new attacker or two.
18 days ago
Boudewijn Zenden has warned that Liverpool could risk antagonising two of their current players if they were to spend upwards of £80m on another striker.
The Reds invested roughly £200m on two centre-forwards in Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak last summer, although both have since suffered long-term injuries.
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The Sweden international broke his leg just before Christmas and had only just returned in April when the Frenchman suffered an Achilles injury which is projected to sideline him for the remainder of 2026.
It's left new head coach Andoni Iraola relying heavily on the 26-year-old to remain consistently fit for the first half of next season, although Zenden has warned that spending big on another striker could create problems at Liverpool rather than solving them.
The Reds invested roughly £200m on two centre-forwards in Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak last summer, although both have since suffered long-term injuries.
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The Sweden international broke his leg just before Christmas and had only just returned in April when the Frenchman suffered an Achilles injury which is projected to sideline him for the remainder of 2026.
It's left new head coach Andoni Iraola relying heavily on the 26-year-old to remain consistently fit for the first half of next season, although Zenden has warned that spending big on another striker could create problems at Liverpool rather than solving them.
19 days ago
Andoni Iraola has a lot of work to do at Anfield this season.
The Spaniard has to reignite the belief into his team that they can challenge for silverware.
Indeed, they did get out of the Champions League league stage this season but, a team of Liverpool's quality should at least be seen as contenders to win the entire thing.
Initially, at the start of the season, everyone thought that Liverpool would win everything thrown at them but, after players such as Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz failed to deliver, that was far from the case.
This term, something needs to change and, the fact that the Anfield outfit have just been handed a massive boost is definitely a step in the right direction.
The Spaniard has to reignite the belief into his team that they can challenge for silverware.
Indeed, they did get out of the Champions League league stage this season but, a team of Liverpool's quality should at least be seen as contenders to win the entire thing.
Initially, at the start of the season, everyone thought that Liverpool would win everything thrown at them but, after players such as Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz failed to deliver, that was far from the case.
This term, something needs to change and, the fact that the Anfield outfit have just been handed a massive boost is definitely a step in the right direction.
19 days ago
While the club broke transfer records, the problem for the transfer guru was what they could not buy. Or did not, anyway.
Liverpool's summer departures will include Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson and, now, Michael Edwards; in his first stint at Anfield, perhaps the most celebrated sporting director in the game. In his second, as Fenway Sports Group's CEO of football, a man heading a multi-club operation with a solitary club.
Edwards' decision to move on, a year before the end of his lucrative contract, was made last autumn, when he handed in his notice. It predated much of Liverpool's troubled season and the sacking of Arne Slot, if not the record outlay of £450m on players, and £125m on Alexander Isak, last summer.
But when he was persuaded to return, it was supposedly to head up a bigger project. FSG looked at a host of other clubs – Malaga, Bordeaux, Toulouse, and 20 or more others – but bought none. The outlay was of more than half a billion on players, including this summer's additions, but nothing on clubs. FSG was not to become Merseyside's answer to the City Football Group or (perhaps thankfully) BlueCo.
It also invited the question of what Liverpool's collection of directors of football all did. Edwards brought Julian Ward back, as FSG's technical director, and recruited Pedro Marques, as their director of football development, while Richard Hughes, an ally from his Portsmouth days, was his appointment as sporting director of Liverpool.
Liverpool's summer departures will include Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson and, now, Michael Edwards; in his first stint at Anfield, perhaps the most celebrated sporting director in the game. In his second, as Fenway Sports Group's CEO of football, a man heading a multi-club operation with a solitary club.
Edwards' decision to move on, a year before the end of his lucrative contract, was made last autumn, when he handed in his notice. It predated much of Liverpool's troubled season and the sacking of Arne Slot, if not the record outlay of £450m on players, and £125m on Alexander Isak, last summer.
But when he was persuaded to return, it was supposedly to head up a bigger project. FSG looked at a host of other clubs – Malaga, Bordeaux, Toulouse, and 20 or more others – but bought none. The outlay was of more than half a billion on players, including this summer's additions, but nothing on clubs. FSG was not to become Merseyside's answer to the City Football Group or (perhaps thankfully) BlueCo.
It also invited the question of what Liverpool's collection of directors of football all did. Edwards brought Julian Ward back, as FSG's technical director, and recruited Pedro Marques, as their director of football development, while Richard Hughes, an ally from his Portsmouth days, was his appointment as sporting director of Liverpool.
20 days ago
We asked for your views on Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes asking to leave the club amid interest from Premier League champions **** nal.
Here are some of your comments:
Jona: Bruno wanting to leave is an inevitable by product of us selling our best players - Isak, Gordon and Tonali. While he would be the ideal captain to lead us during our rebuild, unfortunately you can understand him wanting to leave and challenge for **** les. We'll just have to get the best fee we can for him and shop smart in the market to replace him.
Samuel: This could be more of a kick in the teeth than Isak. The club captain, who throughout his entire time at the club has seemed so devoted to the journey we're on. There was a sense of inevitability around the Gordon and Tonali transfers, but I suppose I didn't see this one coming. I said last year when Isak left that there was a lot of work to be done to change player perspectives of the club. Clearly there's still more to do.
Gordon: I am saddened but not surprised. Bruno has been special as the engine of the team. A great leader and he will be missed, of course. I don't blame him for seeking a stronger more successful club. I hope the deal is done quickly and without animosity.
Here are some of your comments:
Jona: Bruno wanting to leave is an inevitable by product of us selling our best players - Isak, Gordon and Tonali. While he would be the ideal captain to lead us during our rebuild, unfortunately you can understand him wanting to leave and challenge for **** les. We'll just have to get the best fee we can for him and shop smart in the market to replace him.
Samuel: This could be more of a kick in the teeth than Isak. The club captain, who throughout his entire time at the club has seemed so devoted to the journey we're on. There was a sense of inevitability around the Gordon and Tonali transfers, but I suppose I didn't see this one coming. I said last year when Isak left that there was a lot of work to be done to change player perspectives of the club. Clearly there's still more to do.
Gordon: I am saddened but not surprised. Bruno has been special as the engine of the team. A great leader and he will be missed, of course. I don't blame him for seeking a stronger more successful club. I hope the deal is done quickly and without animosity.
20 days ago
Has the Newcastle United transfer deterrent accidentally become an invitation?
August 2021 brought the day that all English football fans feared would eventually come – Jack Grealish became the Premier League's first ever £100m player after his long-awaited move to Pep Guardiola's seemingly unstoppable Manchester City.
There was a disappointment amongst many (none more so than the Villa fans who after two seasons of holding on, had finally lost their prized ***** et to one of the Premier League big boys) that our beloved game had finally reached a tipping point in inflated transfer fees alongside an expectation that it would be become the new norm.
Except it didn't – at first.
It would be another two years before these transfers started becoming regular events and since then we've seen eight (as of the time of writing) reported £100m+ transfers in the last five years, with Newcastle United playing a direct part in two of them with Alexander Isak and Sandro Tonali's big money moves to other clubs. As well as an argument that we played a minor part in Elliott Anderson's recent move to City.
August 2021 brought the day that all English football fans feared would eventually come – Jack Grealish became the Premier League's first ever £100m player after his long-awaited move to Pep Guardiola's seemingly unstoppable Manchester City.
There was a disappointment amongst many (none more so than the Villa fans who after two seasons of holding on, had finally lost their prized ***** et to one of the Premier League big boys) that our beloved game had finally reached a tipping point in inflated transfer fees alongside an expectation that it would be become the new norm.
Except it didn't – at first.
It would be another two years before these transfers started becoming regular events and since then we've seen eight (as of the time of writing) reported £100m+ transfers in the last five years, with Newcastle United playing a direct part in two of them with Alexander Isak and Sandro Tonali's big money moves to other clubs. As well as an argument that we played a minor part in Elliott Anderson's recent move to City.
23 days ago
We asked for your views on which free agents Liverpool could target this summer and whether there is one player the Reds are linked with but you hope they never sign.
Here are some of your comments:
Hamshanks: I'd happily take John Stones at Liverpool. One thing that was learned from last season was that the squad was too small. And with the new manager's physical demands, a lot of muscle injuries will ensue. Stones is an experienced head who would help the younger players.
Samers: Dusan Vlahovic would be a good addition as we need a short-term striker until Hugo Ekitike comes back. Jadon Sancho would be good as well. I would sign both on one-year deals with an option of an extra year.
Jack: From the list of World Cup free agents, there are two I'd want at Liverpool - John Stones or David Alaba - but neither is realistic. Obviously, the one we'd all want to rejoin is Mo Salah, but that ain't happening either. As for a player who Liverpool have been linked to but I wouldn't want to join, I'd say Bradley Barcola, not because of the player we'd be getting - because I'd love to see him here - but because of the asking price. PSG have overpriced him and I don't want Liverpool spending another £100m on a player after Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz, who have both struggled.
Here are some of your comments:
Hamshanks: I'd happily take John Stones at Liverpool. One thing that was learned from last season was that the squad was too small. And with the new manager's physical demands, a lot of muscle injuries will ensue. Stones is an experienced head who would help the younger players.
Samers: Dusan Vlahovic would be a good addition as we need a short-term striker until Hugo Ekitike comes back. Jadon Sancho would be good as well. I would sign both on one-year deals with an option of an extra year.
Jack: From the list of World Cup free agents, there are two I'd want at Liverpool - John Stones or David Alaba - but neither is realistic. Obviously, the one we'd all want to rejoin is Mo Salah, but that ain't happening either. As for a player who Liverpool have been linked to but I wouldn't want to join, I'd say Bradley Barcola, not because of the player we'd be getting - because I'd love to see him here - but because of the asking price. PSG have overpriced him and I don't want Liverpool spending another £100m on a player after Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz, who have both struggled.
24 days ago
Richard Hughes has been a major player in Liverpool’s post-Jurgen Klopp operations.
The former Bournemouth technical director was headhunted by FSG CEO of Football Michael Edwards to become Liverpool sporting director in 2024.
Hughes, 46, set about hiring Arne Slot as new head coach - a remarkable appointment given the Dutchman won the Premier League ***** le in his first season in charge.
The Scottish exec then oversaw £450m worth of transfer spending last summer - breaking the British transfer record for Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak.
He also orchestrated new deals for Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk in 2025 - as well as Cody Gakpo and Ryan Gravenberch in the 2025/26 season.
The former Bournemouth technical director was headhunted by FSG CEO of Football Michael Edwards to become Liverpool sporting director in 2024.
Hughes, 46, set about hiring Arne Slot as new head coach - a remarkable appointment given the Dutchman won the Premier League ***** le in his first season in charge.
The Scottish exec then oversaw £450m worth of transfer spending last summer - breaking the British transfer record for Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak.
He also orchestrated new deals for Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk in 2025 - as well as Cody Gakpo and Ryan Gravenberch in the 2025/26 season.
26 days ago
Liverpool made several alterations to the squad last summer.
Richard Hughes bid farewell to plenty of ******* le-winning stars - including Darwin Nunez, Luis Diaz, Caoimhin Kelleher and Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Deals were concluded for replacements and upgrades - including Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike, Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong.
Unfortunately for the Reds they got worse - not better - and slumped to a fifth-place Premier League finish. Those failures cost Arne Slot his job as he was simply unable to get the best out of his new signings on a regular basis.
And now it's been claimed that one of those new faces is being offered around just ONE year after his arrival.
Richard Hughes bid farewell to plenty of ******* le-winning stars - including Darwin Nunez, Luis Diaz, Caoimhin Kelleher and Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Deals were concluded for replacements and upgrades - including Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike, Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong.
Unfortunately for the Reds they got worse - not better - and slumped to a fifth-place Premier League finish. Those failures cost Arne Slot his job as he was simply unable to get the best out of his new signings on a regular basis.
And now it's been claimed that one of those new faces is being offered around just ONE year after his arrival.
27 days ago
Bruno Guimaraes has emerged as one of ***** nal’s leading targets this summer, raising the possibility that Newcastle United could once again face a difficult battle to keep one of their most influential players.
The Magpies possess several highly regarded players and remain determined to keep Guimaraes away from ***** nal despite growing speculation surrounding his future.
Arsenal view the Brazilian midfielder as an ideal addition to strengthen the centre of their squad, but Newcastle now risk becoming involved in another lengthy transfer saga similar to the situation surrounding Alexander Isak last summer.
Newcastle eventually agreed to sell the Swedish striker, which has inevitably led to questions over whether Guimaraes could also consider pushing for a move if ***** nal continue their pursuit during the transfer window.
Arsenal will hope the situation develops in their favour, but losing another major player would represent a significant setback for a Newcastle side eager to recover strongly next season.
The Magpies possess several highly regarded players and remain determined to keep Guimaraes away from ***** nal despite growing speculation surrounding his future.
Arsenal view the Brazilian midfielder as an ideal addition to strengthen the centre of their squad, but Newcastle now risk becoming involved in another lengthy transfer saga similar to the situation surrounding Alexander Isak last summer.
Newcastle eventually agreed to sell the Swedish striker, which has inevitably led to questions over whether Guimaraes could also consider pushing for a move if ***** nal continue their pursuit during the transfer window.
Arsenal will hope the situation develops in their favour, but losing another major player would represent a significant setback for a Newcastle side eager to recover strongly next season.
27 days ago
Last year Liverpool spent around £450m on new players.
It was to no great effect as the defending Premier League champions slumped from first to fifth place.
The Reds struggled to get a return out of top signings like Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz. Isak, 26, cost a British record £125m from Newcastle but endured a nightmare campaign.
Wirtz on the other hand cost a fee that could reach £116m from Bayer Leverkusen and his Anfield career is still waiting to catch light.
Isak broke his leg in December and by the end of the season had scored only four goals. Sporting director Richard Hughes will be expecting a lot more bang for his book - especially if the Sweden striker sticks around for the duration of his six-year contract.
It was to no great effect as the defending Premier League champions slumped from first to fifth place.
The Reds struggled to get a return out of top signings like Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz. Isak, 26, cost a British record £125m from Newcastle but endured a nightmare campaign.
Wirtz on the other hand cost a fee that could reach £116m from Bayer Leverkusen and his Anfield career is still waiting to catch light.
Isak broke his leg in December and by the end of the season had scored only four goals. Sporting director Richard Hughes will be expecting a lot more bang for his book - especially if the Sweden striker sticks around for the duration of his six-year contract.
28 days ago
Alexander Isak was the subject of a rather unforgiving verdict from one reporter as the Liverpool striker exited the World Cup on Tuesday following Sweden’s 3-0 defeat to France in the round of 32.
He became the fifth Reds player to be knocked out of the tournament in the ***** e of 24 hours, suffering the same fate as Florian Wirtz (Germany), Virgil van Dijk, Cody Gakpo and Ryan Gravenberch (Netherlands).
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Graham Potter’s side had no answer to a rampant Les Bleus outfit in New Jersey, and the performance of our number 9 came in for plenty of scrutiny.
Matthew Guyett handed Isak a lowly 4/10 in his player ratings for GiveMeSport, observing that the 26-year-old was ‘rarely involved’ and, on that display, is ‘not in the same league as [Kylian] Mbappe and [Michael] Olise’.
He became the fifth Reds player to be knocked out of the tournament in the ***** e of 24 hours, suffering the same fate as Florian Wirtz (Germany), Virgil van Dijk, Cody Gakpo and Ryan Gravenberch (Netherlands).
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Graham Potter’s side had no answer to a rampant Les Bleus outfit in New Jersey, and the performance of our number 9 came in for plenty of scrutiny.
Matthew Guyett handed Isak a lowly 4/10 in his player ratings for GiveMeSport, observing that the 26-year-old was ‘rarely involved’ and, on that display, is ‘not in the same league as [Kylian] Mbappe and [Michael] Olise’.
28 days ago
Liverpool are eyeing up big changes to their frontline this summer.
Last year the Reds - who were then the Premier League defending champions - spent £450m on new players. Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak were among the headline arrivals for a remodelled strike line.
Sadly for Arne Slot the Anfield side got worse - not better - and it cost him his job. Liverpool slumped from first to fifth with Wirtz and Isak in particular struggling for an impact.
Wirtz cost a fee that could reach £116m - then a British record - when coming on board from Bayer Leverkusen. And Isak was even more expensive with Liverpool having to pay £125m to sign him from Newcastle on a six-year deal.
But the Sweden international endured a nightmare first season on Merseyside - suffering several injury problems including a broken leg.
Last year the Reds - who were then the Premier League defending champions - spent £450m on new players. Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak were among the headline arrivals for a remodelled strike line.
Sadly for Arne Slot the Anfield side got worse - not better - and it cost him his job. Liverpool slumped from first to fifth with Wirtz and Isak in particular struggling for an impact.
Wirtz cost a fee that could reach £116m - then a British record - when coming on board from Bayer Leverkusen. And Isak was even more expensive with Liverpool having to pay £125m to sign him from Newcastle on a six-year deal.
But the Sweden international endured a nightmare first season on Merseyside - suffering several injury problems including a broken leg.
29 days ago
Sweden face France at New York-New Jersey Stadium on Tuesday evening in the World Cup last 32, having scraped into the knockouts as third-place qualifiers.
Graham Potter's side advanced from Group F on goal difference after a mixed campaign that included a heavy win over Tunisia and an equally heavy defeat to the Netherlands. Sweden's earliest possible exit at this World Cup would be their first-round elimination in the round of 32 since 1990 — a measure of how far the nation has come since failing to qualify for three of the last four tournaments before this one.
The headline news is unwelcome. Isak Hien has been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament with a hamstring injury sustained during the goalless draw with ****** an. The Atalanta centre-back was forced off in the 37th minute after overstretching for a ball.
The Swedish national team doctor confirmed afterwards that the injury would keep him out for an extended period. Potter described the news as "very sad" and confirmed Hien will return to his club for rehabilitation.
The knock-on effect reshapes Sweden's entire defensive structure. Victor Lindelof, who started the ****** an match in midfield, drops back into the centre-back role he occupied for much of his club career, partnering Gustaf Lagerbielke and Gabriel Gudmundsson in a back three.
Graham Potter's side advanced from Group F on goal difference after a mixed campaign that included a heavy win over Tunisia and an equally heavy defeat to the Netherlands. Sweden's earliest possible exit at this World Cup would be their first-round elimination in the round of 32 since 1990 — a measure of how far the nation has come since failing to qualify for three of the last four tournaments before this one.
The headline news is unwelcome. Isak Hien has been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament with a hamstring injury sustained during the goalless draw with ****** an. The Atalanta centre-back was forced off in the 37th minute after overstretching for a ball.
The Swedish national team doctor confirmed afterwards that the injury would keep him out for an extended period. Potter described the news as "very sad" and confirmed Hien will return to his club for rehabilitation.
The knock-on effect reshapes Sweden's entire defensive structure. Victor Lindelof, who started the ****** an match in midfield, drops back into the centre-back role he occupied for much of his club career, partnering Gustaf Lagerbielke and Gabriel Gudmundsson in a back three.
1 month ago
After weeks of strong interest from Liverpool, PSG are increasingly confident in their chase for RB Leipzig forward, with the French champions expecting to complete the transfer in the coming days.
However, their move for the 19-year-old could open the door for Liverpool to move for PSG forward Bradley Barcola.
The Reds were interested in the Frenchman in 2025, but prioritised a move record-breaking £125m move for Alexander Isak.
But now, journalist Santi Aouna has hinted that a deal could be possible…
Speaking on X, Aouna said: “PSG is convinced that Yan Diomande will be the first summer signing.”
However, their move for the 19-year-old could open the door for Liverpool to move for PSG forward Bradley Barcola.
The Reds were interested in the Frenchman in 2025, but prioritised a move record-breaking £125m move for Alexander Isak.
But now, journalist Santi Aouna has hinted that a deal could be possible…
Speaking on X, Aouna said: “PSG is convinced that Yan Diomande will be the first summer signing.”
1 month ago
Japan will face Brazil in a World Cup last-32 clash after drawing 1-1 with Sweden on Thursday to finish runners-up behind the Netherlands in Group F.
In a game in front of 70,000 in Texas that sprang into life in the second half, Daizen Maeda gave **** an the lead soon after the break but Anthony Elanga levelled minutes later.
Japan, fancied as dark horses to go far in North America, were hanging on by the end as Alexander Isak and Elanga both went close in injury time.
The Netherlands finished top of a competitive group with seven points, with **** an on five, Sweden four and Tunisia on the plane home with zero.
Graham Potter's Sweden have also qualified for the knockouts as one of the best third-placed finishers.
In a game in front of 70,000 in Texas that sprang into life in the second half, Daizen Maeda gave **** an the lead soon after the break but Anthony Elanga levelled minutes later.
Japan, fancied as dark horses to go far in North America, were hanging on by the end as Alexander Isak and Elanga both went close in injury time.
The Netherlands finished top of a competitive group with seven points, with **** an on five, Sweden four and Tunisia on the plane home with zero.
Graham Potter's Sweden have also qualified for the knockouts as one of the best third-placed finishers.
1 month ago
Having played out a 1-1 draw in Dallas this evening, both ***** an and Sweden have secured their passage to the Round of 32. The former side, who clinched second place in Group F, will take on Brazil while the Swedes face Morocco. Elsewhere, the Netherlands took top spot.
Both sides adopted a cautious approach to the game's opening stages, fully aware of what was at stake. Little materialized in front of goal aside from a rather tame strike from Holstein Kiel's Alex Bernhardsson and Dazien Maeda who narrowly headed past the post.
Interestingly, both nations were forced into first-half changes as Sweden's Isaac Hien limped off for Lucas Bergvall, while ***** an gave ex-Gladbach man Ko Itakura the hook for Taniguchi. Bremen loanee Suguwara and Nakamura both tested Zetterström before the break.
Japan continued where they left off before the break, keeping the pressure on their European opponents. The breakthrough on 56 minutes arrived when Frankfurt's Ritsu Dōan played a delightful one-two before threading a ball into Maeda who finished with ruthless conviction.
Despite offering little all evening, Sweden put themselves back on level terms eight minutes later. Anthony Elanga's effort from the right appear to catch Zion Suzuki out and nestle inside the left post. The ***** anese shot stopper made amends a minute later to deny Isak.
Both sides adopted a cautious approach to the game's opening stages, fully aware of what was at stake. Little materialized in front of goal aside from a rather tame strike from Holstein Kiel's Alex Bernhardsson and Dazien Maeda who narrowly headed past the post.
Interestingly, both nations were forced into first-half changes as Sweden's Isaac Hien limped off for Lucas Bergvall, while ***** an gave ex-Gladbach man Ko Itakura the hook for Taniguchi. Bremen loanee Suguwara and Nakamura both tested Zetterström before the break.
Japan continued where they left off before the break, keeping the pressure on their European opponents. The breakthrough on 56 minutes arrived when Frankfurt's Ritsu Dōan played a delightful one-two before threading a ball into Maeda who finished with ruthless conviction.
Despite offering little all evening, Sweden put themselves back on level terms eight minutes later. Anthony Elanga's effort from the right appear to catch Zion Suzuki out and nestle inside the left post. The ***** anese shot stopper made amends a minute later to deny Isak.
1 month ago
It has always appeared that the first order of business in the summer transfer window for Manchester City was completing a deal to sign Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest. The England international has long seemed to be the ideal fit for City's midfield due to his combination of elite technical ability and his superb work out of possession, particularly his ability to win duels. Manchester City have been in protracted negotiations with Nottingham Forest over a deal to sign Elliot Anderson. Finally, a deal has been agreed as per multiple reports and City will finally land their primary transfer target to strengthen their midfield.
It has now been reported by multiple reporters that Manchester City have agreed to sign Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest for a transfer fee of £116 million. David Ornstein has reported for The Athletic that City will pay a club record transfer fee to sign the England international. Furthermore, Ornstein reports that there are no add-ons or bonuses included in the deal. It is also reported by Ornstein that Elliot Anderson is set to undergo his medical on Friday after his move to the FA Cup and Carabao Cup holders.
Fabrizio Romano has given Elliot Anderson's imminent move from Nottingham Forest to Manchester City his trademark 'here we go' line. Romano backs up Ornstein's claim that City will pay Nottingham Forest £116 million to sign the combative and powerful midfielder. Furthermore, Romano reports that Anderson asked Nottingham Forest to leave the club yesterday and that the deal between the two clubs has now been agreed.
Lastly, Jack Gaughan and Craig Hope have reported for the Daily Mail that Elliot Anderson wil become the most expensive English footballer of all time when he completes his £116 million move to City. Furthermore, the Daily Mail reports that City will pay Nottingham Forest a one-off payment for the England international. Also, City sources have stressed to the Daily Mail that City will sign Anderson for less than Liverpool's British record transfer fee of £125 million that they paid to sign Alexander Isak from Newcastle.
Arguably the biggest priority this summer for Manchester City was to strengthen their midfield. Bernardo Silva has left the club and the jury remains out on whether Nico Gonzalez or Tijjani Reijnders will make the grade as City midfielders. By completing the signing of Elliot Anderson, City have begun the process of rejuvenating their midfield.
It has now been reported by multiple reporters that Manchester City have agreed to sign Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest for a transfer fee of £116 million. David Ornstein has reported for The Athletic that City will pay a club record transfer fee to sign the England international. Furthermore, Ornstein reports that there are no add-ons or bonuses included in the deal. It is also reported by Ornstein that Elliot Anderson is set to undergo his medical on Friday after his move to the FA Cup and Carabao Cup holders.
Fabrizio Romano has given Elliot Anderson's imminent move from Nottingham Forest to Manchester City his trademark 'here we go' line. Romano backs up Ornstein's claim that City will pay Nottingham Forest £116 million to sign the combative and powerful midfielder. Furthermore, Romano reports that Anderson asked Nottingham Forest to leave the club yesterday and that the deal between the two clubs has now been agreed.
Lastly, Jack Gaughan and Craig Hope have reported for the Daily Mail that Elliot Anderson wil become the most expensive English footballer of all time when he completes his £116 million move to City. Furthermore, the Daily Mail reports that City will pay Nottingham Forest a one-off payment for the England international. Also, City sources have stressed to the Daily Mail that City will sign Anderson for less than Liverpool's British record transfer fee of £125 million that they paid to sign Alexander Isak from Newcastle.
Arguably the biggest priority this summer for Manchester City was to strengthen their midfield. Bernardo Silva has left the club and the jury remains out on whether Nico Gonzalez or Tijjani Reijnders will make the grade as City midfielders. By completing the signing of Elliot Anderson, City have begun the process of rejuvenating their midfield.
1 month ago
Bradley Barcola is edging closer to a move to Liverpool.
Let's be honest, we all know the Reds are not targeting the Frenchman or Yan Diomande. It's not either-or. The truth is that Liverpool would ideally want both.
After all, why would a player in Diomande, who prefers to play as a right-winger, have an alternative in Barcola, who prefers to play on the left-wing?
It just doesn't make sense. Diomande is clearly the top target to replace Mo Salah. As for Barcola, he is the target to replace Cody Gakpo.
It's becoming clearer and clearer that Liverpool's plans in an ideal world will be that this summer. Just as they wanted Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak last summer.
Let's be honest, we all know the Reds are not targeting the Frenchman or Yan Diomande. It's not either-or. The truth is that Liverpool would ideally want both.
After all, why would a player in Diomande, who prefers to play as a right-winger, have an alternative in Barcola, who prefers to play on the left-wing?
It just doesn't make sense. Diomande is clearly the top target to replace Mo Salah. As for Barcola, he is the target to replace Cody Gakpo.
It's becoming clearer and clearer that Liverpool's plans in an ideal world will be that this summer. Just as they wanted Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak last summer.
1 month ago
Liverpool could still yet another Newcastle target.
The Geordies must hate the Reds at this point. Last summer Liverpool not only took their star player in Alexander Isak but also their no.1 choice to replace that star player in Hugo Ekitike.
This summer Liverpool swooped in to sign Victor Munoz, who was Newcastle's first choice to replace Anthony Gordon. Munoz was pretty much on the brink of a Newcastle move before the Reds activated his release clause and turned his head.
It has sent Newcastle United fans into a frenzy on social media, and you can't blame them.
Taking Isak and Ekitike from their hands in the same summer was a really **** y move and one that definitely avenged the defeat to Newcastle in the Carabao Cup final the season prior.
The Geordies must hate the Reds at this point. Last summer Liverpool not only took their star player in Alexander Isak but also their no.1 choice to replace that star player in Hugo Ekitike.
This summer Liverpool swooped in to sign Victor Munoz, who was Newcastle's first choice to replace Anthony Gordon. Munoz was pretty much on the brink of a Newcastle move before the Reds activated his release clause and turned his head.
It has sent Newcastle United fans into a frenzy on social media, and you can't blame them.
Taking Isak and Ekitike from their hands in the same summer was a really **** y move and one that definitely avenged the defeat to Newcastle in the Carabao Cup final the season prior.
1 month ago
Liverpool and Richard Hughes are eager to move on from their mistake with Alexander Isak. A €100m bid is now in.
Liverpool broke their transfer record twice in 2025, first with Florian Wirtz and then again with Alexander Isak. The Isak deal was extra special, too, as it also broke the overall British transfer record.
However, the process of completing that deal has been an absolute disaster. It looked terrible at the time, of course, with Liverpool waiting all summer long before signing the Swede at the last minute - literally on deadline day.
They'd finally got their man, though, and that was okay. Surely?
No, as it turned out. The drawn out process left Isak on the sidelines at Newcastle United, essentially on strike as he tried to force through the move. He didn't have a pre-season and arrived at Liverpool woefully unprepared.
Liverpool broke their transfer record twice in 2025, first with Florian Wirtz and then again with Alexander Isak. The Isak deal was extra special, too, as it also broke the overall British transfer record.
However, the process of completing that deal has been an absolute disaster. It looked terrible at the time, of course, with Liverpool waiting all summer long before signing the Swede at the last minute - literally on deadline day.
They'd finally got their man, though, and that was okay. Surely?
No, as it turned out. The drawn out process left Isak on the sidelines at Newcastle United, essentially on strike as he tried to force through the move. He didn't have a pre-season and arrived at Liverpool woefully unprepared.
1 month ago
Over the last few years, Liverpool's first-team squad has changed dramatically.
During Jurgen Klopp's era, the German was rarely handed much transfer budget to change things around but, in Arne Slot's second season, Fenway Sports Group gave him £450 million.
On paper, most of the transfers made a lot of sense with Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak being the stand-out choices.
However, because of injuries, a lack of cohesion and the poor tactical choices from Slot, nothing worked out.
This led to some fans asking for the return of some players with Andoni Iraola now making a decision about one of the Reds' former cult-heroes.
During Jurgen Klopp's era, the German was rarely handed much transfer budget to change things around but, in Arne Slot's second season, Fenway Sports Group gave him £450 million.
On paper, most of the transfers made a lot of sense with Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak being the stand-out choices.
However, because of injuries, a lack of cohesion and the poor tactical choices from Slot, nothing worked out.
This led to some fans asking for the return of some players with Andoni Iraola now making a decision about one of the Reds' former cult-heroes.
1 month ago
One football finance expert has claimed that Liverpool could be in for another ****** per summer transfer window.
Off the back of winning the Premier League in 2025, FSG shattered their external perception as parsimonious custodians at Anfield by bankrolling a spending spree of almost £450m on new signings, which included £100m+ deals for both Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak.
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The trolley dash didn’t have the desired effect as the Reds slumped to fifth in the final standings, but that was still enough to sneak into next season’s Champions League, and fans have now been advised to expect another substantial outlay this summer.
Stefan Borson, former financial adviser to Manchester City, has claimed that Liverpool could spend upwards of £250m before the end of August, but warned that the transfer kitty at Anfield isn’t bottomless.
Off the back of winning the Premier League in 2025, FSG shattered their external perception as parsimonious custodians at Anfield by bankrolling a spending spree of almost £450m on new signings, which included £100m+ deals for both Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL EMPIRE OF THE KOP APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
The trolley dash didn’t have the desired effect as the Reds slumped to fifth in the final standings, but that was still enough to sneak into next season’s Champions League, and fans have now been advised to expect another substantial outlay this summer.
Stefan Borson, former financial adviser to Manchester City, has claimed that Liverpool could spend upwards of £250m before the end of August, but warned that the transfer kitty at Anfield isn’t bottomless.
1 month ago
Where to watch Netherlands vs. Sweden live stream, TV channel, start time for World Cup Group F match originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The 2026 World Cup group stage continues as Netherlands and Sweden meet in Houston in a Group F clash that could go a long way to deciding who tops the section.
Ronald Koeman's side arrive as clear favorites، unbeaten through qualifying and stacked with Premier League talent across the pitch. But they head into this one without Xavi Simons, Jurrien Timber, and Matthijs de Ligt, three players who were ruled out through injury before a ball was even kicked.
Sweden are no pushovers. Graham Potter's side qualified through the playoffs and have two of Europe's best strikers in Viktor Gyokeres and Alexander Isak, enough to cause the Dutch real problems in Houston.
The Sporting News looks at the key details ahead of this game, including how to watch the match and kickoff times.
The 2026 World Cup group stage continues as Netherlands and Sweden meet in Houston in a Group F clash that could go a long way to deciding who tops the section.
Ronald Koeman's side arrive as clear favorites، unbeaten through qualifying and stacked with Premier League talent across the pitch. But they head into this one without Xavi Simons, Jurrien Timber, and Matthijs de Ligt, three players who were ruled out through injury before a ball was even kicked.
Sweden are no pushovers. Graham Potter's side qualified through the playoffs and have two of Europe's best strikers in Viktor Gyokeres and Alexander Isak, enough to cause the Dutch real problems in Houston.
The Sporting News looks at the key details ahead of this game, including how to watch the match and kickoff times.
