Liverpool Football Club has officially announced the arrival of Alexander Isak from Newcastle United in a record-breaking £125 million deal. The 25-year-old Swedish international has penned a six-year contract with the Premier League champions, marking the end of a long and dramatic transfer saga. Isak will don the coveted No. 9 jersey for Liverpool, a number previously worn by legendary figures such as Ian Rush, Robbie Fowler, Fernando Torres, and Roberto Firmino.
The transfer fee surpasses the £115 million Chelsea paid for Moises Caicedo in 2023, making it the most expensive transfer in British football history. It also exceeds Liverpool's previous record signing of Florian Wirtz earlier in the summer for a fee that could reach £116.5 million. This move signifies Liverpool's intent to bolster their attacking options and maintain their position at the top of the Premier League.
Isak's move to Liverpool was not without its challenges. Liverpool's initial bid of £110 million was rejected by Newcastle at the beginning of August. Newcastle were initially reluctant to sell their star striker but Isak skipped Newcastle's pre-season tour and released a statement accusing the club of broken promises. He expressed his desire for a change, stating that it was in everyone's best interest. Ultimately, Newcastle agreed to the £125 million fixed fee, a deal effectively worth £130 million to them due to a loyalty payment. To replace Isak, Newcastle have acquired Nick Woltemade from Stuttgart and Yoane Wissa from Brentford for a combined fee of around £119 million.
Despite the transfer drama, Isak has expressed his enthusiasm about joining Liverpool. He stated, "I'm just happy it's done and that I can get back to work. I'm looking forward to seeing my teammates and the fans, and getting back out there". Isak also conveyed his ambition to contribute as much as possible to the team, with a primary focus on scoring goals, and declared his desire to "win everything".
Isak's preferred shirt number throughout his career has been No. 14, which he wore at AIK, Borussia Dortmund, and Newcastle United. However, that number is currently occupied by Federico Chiesa at Liverpool. Other available numbers at Liverpool were 16, 20, 21, 23, 24, 27 and 29. Ultimately, Isak was given the number 9 shirt.
Sweden's head coach Jon Dahl Tomasson expects Isak to join the national team after completing his medical. Tomasson acknowledged that Isak may not be able to play a full 90 minutes but emphasized his potential to be a "game-changer". He praised Isak's professionalism, character, and desire to represent Sweden, particularly in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
The acquisition of Alexander Isak underscores Liverpool's financial strength and their determination to compete at the highest level. The club has spent over £440 million this summer but recouped more than £210 million in player sales. With Isak leading the line, Liverpool aims to continue their dominance in the Premier League and achieve further success in domestic and European competitions. Fans can purchase the new Liverpool home and away kits with Isak's number 9 on the back from the LFC online store.
