Slot already has Hugo Ekitike plan at Liverpool after Alexander Isak transfer news
Liverpool will have a major dilemma on their hands with Hugo Ekitike if they sign Alexander Isak from Newcastle United this transfer window.
The ex-Eintracht Frankfurt forward moved to Anfield recently in a deal worth £79million, including add-ons.
Arne Slot could potentially also have Isak at his disposal before the end of August, but he may already have a plan to fit the two new signings in the starting lineup.
Ekitike versatility to come in handy after Isak transfer to Liverpool
Liverpool admire Ekitike’s versatility amid talks of Isak singing for them, Alex Crook says.
When Henry Winter asked whether the French forward could be played on the left wing if the Newcastle striker arrives at Anfield, the talkSPORT correspondent revealed that Slot pushed for the 23-year-old’s arrival due to the variety of positions he can play in.
While Ekitike is seen as a possible replacement for Darwin Nunez rather than Luis Diaz, the Dutch manager may play him on the left side of attack if the Sweden international moves to Anfield.
| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| Bundesliga | 33 | 15 | 8 |
Speaking on talkSPORT (27 July, 11:21), Crook said: “I think they like the versatility of Ekitike. First and foremost, they do see him as a number nine. So, probably more of a Nunez replacement instead of a Diaz one.
“But I know the fact that he can play a variety of positions was a big factor in Slot pushing for this player.”
Diaz looks close to leaving for Bayern Munich in the coming hours, and it will be interesting to see whether Liverpool will start to push for Isak’s transfer after the Colombia international’s exit is confirmed.
Isak transfer to be game-changer for Liverpool
Isak’s arrival at Anfield will undoubtedly be game-changing for the Reds ahead of next season, and they will be seen as favourites to retain the Premier League title.
Mohamed Salah’s goal contributions led the Merseyside outfit to the top-flight title in the previous campaign, and the Newcastle striker’s addition will arguably make them even more threatening up front.
Liverpool fans have been left disappointed with Nunez and Diaz’s contributions playing as centre-forwards in recent months, and the Swedish striker will be an evident upgrade over them.
Ekitike faced the pressure of competition at an early age at Paris Saint-Germain, playing alongside Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Neymar.
Isak is arguably a more complete number nine, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him start over the ex-Frankfurt star, but the left wing could potentially be up for grabs.
Cody Gakpo found his feet last season, but he may soon have competition for his place in the starting lineup with Ekitike.
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