LIVERPOOL: Liverpool’s pursuit of Newcastle striker Alexander Isak continues to cast a shadow over Sunday’s heavyweight Premier League showdown with Arsenal at Anfield. Defending champions Liverpool are believed to be Isak’s preferred destination, but Newcastle are holding firm for a £150 million fee.
The Swede, who has expressed his desire to leave, has yet to feature this season as the saga drags on towards Monday’s transfer deadline.
Arne Slot’s side have already splashed out heavily on reinforcements, including £100 million German midfielder Florian Wirtz and French forward Hugo Ekitike, who has made an immediate impact with hree goals in as many games.
Yet Liverpool’s shaky defence has left many questioning whether further investment should be directed to the back line instead of another big-name striker.
Sixteen-year-old Rio Ngumoha stole the headlines in Monday’s 3-2 win at Newcastle, while Federico Chiesa made a decisive impact off the bench against Bournemouth. But defensive frailties remain evi with Dominik Szoboszlai pressed into emergency duty at right-back and uncertainty surrounding Ibrahima Konate.
Arsenal, meanwhile, arrive with momentum. Mikel Arteta’s side have reinforced across the pitch, most notably with Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres, who bagged a brace in the 5-0 rout of Leeds. Crucially, the Gunners have yet to concede this season, underscoring the contrast in stability between the two title rivals. – AFP
