Liverpool's striving for Alexander Isak is one of the largest transfer stories to be resolved this summer, but there is still time left for the champions to get a deal
Liverpool -manager Arne Slot has indicated that the move from Darwin Nunez to Al Hilal has virtually done. However, he would not be drawn to questions about whether Alexander Isak will take the place of the Uruguayan in Anfield.
The Premier League champions of Slot have already added Hugo Ekitike to their front line, but Isak is still on their radar. An opening bid with a value of a maximum of £ 120 million was rejected by Newcastle, and it is still to be seen whether the Redd Return with a new offer this summer.
“As you know, we never talk about players who are not yours,” Slot reporters told the Community -Shield when he was asked about Isak. “I can talk about Hugo who recently signed.
“We are very happy with the team we have. Okay, players have left, but we also brought players in and young people are doing well. Darwin can leave, but things are not yet signed. We have to wait a few days before things are done.”
Isak missed the Newcastle tour through Asia and spent the historical training with the former Club Real Sociedad while he brought himself back to full fitness. The Swede is back in Newcastle training, but manager Eddie Howe is not expected to opt for upcoming friendly competitions.
“You have to earn the right to train with us,” said Howe during the week. “We are Newcastle United. The player has a responsibility here to be part of a team and to be part of a team – you have to act in the right way.
“So that is also the case here. We will ensure that every player does that to earn the right to train with the group. No player can expect to act poorly and train with the group as normal.”
While Liverpool Boss Slot refused to comment directly on Isak, he pointed to a different attacking option for later in the campaign. Mohamed Salah will miss some action during the Africa Cup of Nations, and Slot indicated that a new right back Jeremie Frimpong will be an option in that period.
“We certainly thought of Afcon. It is partly why we brought Frimpong in because he can play like a right winger,” said Slot. “A maximum of six games without Mo, but that is a lot in the Premier League. Jeremie can play there, but he is not the only option.”
Liverpool's more direct focus is the community shield. The Reds will be opposed to Crystal Palace in Wembley on Sunday, and it is an opportunity for fans to take another look at new signing sessions, including Frimpong, Ekitike and Florian Wirtz.
“Bilbao, Milan and Yokohama already gave us good competition,” said Slot, referring to the tests for his team's season. “Palace hit the ground again and is still the same team. A good challenge for us to start the season.”