Hendrick and Matchett react to Liverpool’s pursuit of Isak and Ekitike | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Power Play: Isak or Ekitike in Arne Slot’s Red Revolution?

Isak or Nothing? Liverpool Push Newcastle’s Limits

In a rare display of muscle-flexing, Liverpool have made their move for Alexander Isak. As discussed by Dave Hendrick and Karl Matchett on the latest episode of the AEye Scouted podcast, the Reds are finally acting like a “big club” again. Hendrick laid it out simply: “It’s been quite a long time and we’ve not seen Liverpool operate this way… we’re bigger than you, we have more might than you, we have more appeal than you.”

The bid, reported by David Ornstein and Fabrizio Romano, signals Liverpool’s intent. And while Newcastle maintain their “not for sale” stance on Isak, Hendrick was quick to point out the contradiction: “It can’t be both. He’s either not for sale or there is a price tag.”

Newcastle’s Dilemma and Ekitike’s Emergence

Newcastle’s own summer wishlist — a forward, a goalkeeper, a centre-back, and a midfielder — might require sacrifices. Enter Hugo Ekitike. Liverpool’s strategy has reportedly been direct: “Sell us Alexander Isak for a very big fee or we’re just going to go and take Hugo Ekitike.”

Matchett described the move as “a power play,” and Hendrick agreed, calling it “bullying teams like that.” Newcastle’s plan to sign Ekitike was no secret, and Liverpool’s approach may have derailed it. “Romano has just tweeted… Newcastle have already left talks for Hugo Ekitike. Deal considered off at this stage,” noted Hendrick, indicating Liverpool had blown the doors off.

Ekitike: Not a Cheap Gamble

The discussion turned to Ekitike’s fit for Liverpool. Matchett was cautiously optimistic, stating, “He’s very talented. He’s very unproven and he’s very overpriced.” With a release clause of €100 million, both agreed Liverpool cannot justify the full amount. But Hendrick floated a more tolerable deal: “If we can get him somewhere in the region of 70, which is still an overpay but it’s a more palatable overpay than 86 million.”

In comparing the two strikers, Hendrick observed that Ekitike may be “a bit further along now than Isak was in his last year in Spain.” However, the podcast made it clear Ekitike still has “a lot of the same concerns,” including adapting to Premier League physicality.

High Stakes for Slot’s Attack

Liverpool’s ambitions under Arne Slot are clear. With Mo Salah, Rodrygo and potentially Florian Wirtz, Ekitike would be joining a high-octane attack. But Matchett offered a critical warning: “If Ekitike hits, great, but I wouldn’t expect to see all four of them in the lineup a huge amount of times.”

There’s also concern about the midfield’s ability to feed this new frontline. With Trent Alexander-Arnold gone, Hendrick cautioned: “Who’s getting the ball to them? That’s the big concern.”

Still, if Slot’s system clicks, Liverpool could have a squad strong enough to defend their Premier League title. And if Newcastle refuse to sell Isak, Ekitike could be the next name to light up Anfield.