Liverpool’s new look attack with Isak, Salah & Wirtz explained

Liverpool have completed the £130m signing of Alexander Isak from Newcastle United, making him the most expensive transfer in British football history. 

Liverpool have finally landed their long-term No9, confirming the arrival of Alexander Isak from Newcastle United in a blockbuster £130m deal. The Swedish striker becomes the Reds’ record signing and joins a frontline already bolstered by Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz.

Isak, who scored 21 Premier League goals last season, arrives as arguably the best centre-forward in England. His signing has led many rival fans to claim the title race is “over” already — especially after Arsenal’s defeat at the weekend. But how exactly could Arne Slot fit Isak into his attacking puzzle at Anfield?

Slot could pair Isak and Ekitike in a 4-2-2-2, giving Liverpool two strikers with very different profiles.

Ekitike’s mobility and unselfish movement would create space for Isak, who thrives when running into gaps between defenders. With Mohamed Salah and Florian Wirtz supplying creativity from behind, Liverpool would have a devastating dual-threat.

Liverpool XI (4-2-2-2):
Alisson; Frimpong, Konaté, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Wirtz, Ekitike, Isak

Another possibility is Slot keeping his 4-2-3-1, but shifting Ekitike to the left flank to accommodate Isak centrally.

The Frenchman is not a natural winger but has the pace and work rate to play from wide, while Isak assumes his natural role as focal point. This keeps both forwards in the XI while maintaining Liverpool’s preferred system.

Liverpool XI (4-2-3-1):
Alisson; Frimpong, Konaté, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Wirtz, Ekitike, Isak

The most straightforward option is for Slot to use Isak as a lone striker, relegating Ekitike to the bench.

Isak’s hold-up play, finishing, and aerial presence make him ideal to lead the line in a 4-2-3-1, supported by Salah, Wirtz, and Gakpo. In this shape, Ekitike becomes a high-quality rotational option.

Liverpool XI (4-2-3-1):
Alisson; Frimpong, Konaté, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo, Isak

FootballPlace analyst John William said:

“This is the most significant signing of the summer. Isak transforms Liverpool’s attack, not only because of his goals but his ability to link play. Slot now has options: play him with Ekitike, use him as the lone striker, or rotate depending on opposition.”

He added:

“Isak’s arrival signals Liverpool’s intent to dominate the Premier League again. With Salah, Wirtz, and Ekitike around him, this has the potential to be a title-winning frontline.”

Isak will be unveiled this week and could debut after the international break. Slot’s task will be balancing his star-studded frontline and managing Ekitike’s minutes without stalling his development.

Liverpool fans will expect immediate impact from their record signing, while rivals will be watching closely to see if this move makes the Reds overwhelming favourites for the Premier League title.

Which Liverpool setup with Isak looks most dangerous — paired with Ekitike, wide support, or lone striker?