Barcelona are reportedly setting their sights on Liverpool striker Alexander Isak as they search for a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski up front.
The Catalan giants had been linked with Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane, but that move now appears unrealistic given Kane’s likelihood of remaining in Germany.
With the Kane avenue closing, Barcelona have turned their attention to Isak as an alternative option to lead their attack in La Liga.
Isak’s debut campaign at Liverpool was hampered significantly by injuries, with the Sweden international managing only four goals across 22 appearances.
The 26-year-old joined Liverpool in a British transfer record deal from Newcastle United, but has so far struggled to replicate the form that made him one of the Premier League’s most feared strikers.
During his time at Newcastle, Isak established himself as a genuine world-class talent, scoring an impressive 62 goals in 109 games for the Magpies.
His struggles at Anfield have not been unique, with fellow big-money arrivals Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez also finding life difficult after moving to Liverpool last summer.
The departures of Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Ibrahima Konate on free transfers have added further questions around the direction of the club.
Barcelona, operating under experienced coach Hansi Flick, have dominated La Liga in recent seasons and could offer Isak the central role he needs to rediscover his best form.
A switch to Spanish football could also benefit Isak physically, with the demands of La Liga potentially offering him a better chance to manage his fitness and prolong his career.
The example of players like Robert Lewandowski and Luka Modric demonstrates how the Spanish top flight can extend the careers of top-level footballers significantly.
Whether Liverpool would be willing to sell after investing such a significant transfer fee remains to be seen, but Barcelona’s interest signals that Isak’s future at Anfield is far from certain.
