Liverpool prepare Plan B with Madrid attacker in their sights | OneFootball

Liverpool Keep Rodrygo in Reserve as Isak Talks Stall

Isak remains priority but patience wearing thin

Liverpool’s summer transfer saga continues to centre on Alexander Isak. The Sweden international remains the top target for Arne Slot, who sees the Newcastle forward as the focal point of his new-look frontline. But negotiations have proven difficult. Newcastle’s £150m valuation has held firm, and despite a £110m bid from Liverpool being turned away, the message from Tyneside is that Isak will not be sold unless a suitable replacement is signed.

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As journalist Ben Jacobs reported, Liverpool “have no plans to submit a second offer” unless something changes. The standoff has created space for alternatives to be considered, and one name persists: Rodrygo.

Real Madrid forward emerges as fallback option

The Brazilian, still only 24, has long been admired at Anfield. His versatility, high-level experience and production in a Real Madrid shirt make him one of the most compelling options in European football. According to Pete O’Rourke, “Rodrygo’s position at Madrid has been the subject of speculation all summer,” with a peripheral role at the Club World Cup adding fuel to the fire.

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Liverpool have not yet acted on their interest, but the framework of a deal remains possible if the Isak pursuit collapses. “The only way they could get Rodrygo is if they don’t land Isak, then maybe they will step up their interest in the Brazilian,” O’Rourke told Football Insider.

Rodrygo has registered 68 goals and 51 assists in 270 appearances for Real Madrid. These numbers, in the context of Madrid’s constant rotation and fierce internal competition, speak volumes. But he remains a part of Xabi Alonso’s plans, so Liverpool would need to persuade both club and player if they are to make a serious move.

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Slot’s tactical vision dictates direction

Slot’s system places significant demands on the forward line. It is not just about goals but about mobility, pressing and intelligent movement. Isak fits the mould perfectly, which is why Liverpool are reluctant to move on too quickly. Still, the longer Newcastle stall, the more attractive Rodrygo becomes as an alternative.

Fabrizio Romano has indicated that Liverpool may return with a higher bid for Isak if Newcastle land Benjamin Sesko. Meanwhile, TEAMtalk’s Fraser Fletcher believes the Reds would be willing to stretch as high as £150m for the Swede if significant player sales go through. Names like Federico Chiesa, Harvey Elliott and Darwin Nunez have all been mentioned as potential departures to free up funds.

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Transfer outcome could reshape Liverpool’s frontline

There is no doubt that Liverpool are building towards a transformative deal. Whether that turns out to be Isak or Rodrygo, the message is clear: the Reds are willing to spend and reshape their frontline around one elite figure. For now, Isak is Plan A, but Rodrygo lingers close behind.

With Spurs also said to be watching Rodrygo closely, Liverpool will need to act decisively if circumstances change. In a market defined by speed and scale, delay can be costly. But at Anfield, the wheels are already turning.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

This is one of the more exciting transfer windows in recent memory. The club has moved beyond speculative punts and is now chasing top-tier attacking talent with serious intent.

Alexander Isak would be a dream signing. He fits like a glove in Slot’s aggressive, pressing-focused set-up. He can lead the line, stretch defences, and has proven himself in the Premier League. Fans have already visualised him in red, and the thought of letting him slip away because of a fee, while frustrating, is understandable given the scale of investment.

That said, Rodrygo as a Plan B is hardly a downgrade. He is a Champions League winner, a multi-functional forward with flair, vision and a knack for delivering in big moments. If Madrid are open to talks and the Isak deal proves unworkable, most fans would welcome Rodrygo with open arms.

Supporters are also aware that Liverpool need to trim the squad. Moving on players who don’t fit Slot’s system makes sense, especially if it funds an elite arrival.

Whether it is Isak or Rodrygo, there is a genuine sense that Liverpool are building something exciting again. One big name could be the final piece to complete a forward line ready to challenge on all fronts.