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Alexander Isak's staggering $169 million transfer to Liverpool was only finalized after the club's sports science experts gave their green light, according to reports.
Initial concerns were raised about the former Newcastle United striker's injury history, especially considering the record-breaking British fee needed to lure him away from Tyneside, as reported by the Sunday Mirror.
The Swedish international has missed 39 out of 114 matches - mainly due to groin problems - and has been absent from over 200 training days during the same period. However, after extensive consultations with the club's sports science team, the green light was given for the summer's most significant and drawn-out transfer.
It is believed that the team carried out a comprehensive investigation into Isak's injuries and reassured manager Arne Slot and his coaching staff that they are confident in improving his playing record.
Isak will be closely monitored, with bespoke training routines planned to minimize any further extended periods on the sidelines.
The last thing Liverpool needs is to shatter the domestic transfer record only to have their valuable asset miss key matches in another jam-packed season for the current Premier League champions.
But once the sports science department provided solutions to the Swede's injury issues, the record fee was finally agreed with Newcastle.
Speaking after completing his move to Anfield, Isak said: “It’s been a long journey to get here. But I’m super-happy to be a part of this team, this club and everything it stands for. It’s something I’m proud of and I’m really looking forward to it.
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“I’m just happy it’s done and that I can get back to work. I’m looking forward to seeing my teammates and the fans, and getting back out there.”
Isak added: “I think I have a lot to give, I think I have a lot to improve. I’m a striker but I always want to give as much as possible to the team, mainly goals but much more than that as well.
“I want to win everything. Yeah, [as simple as that].”
* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story. You can read the original story in the Express by clicking here.
English (US) ·