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Former Liverpool defender John Arne Riise says Alexander Isak would be the perfect signing for his old team this summer — not least because of the potential for him to link up with Florian Wirtz.
The German playmaker arrived for a club-record fee of around $155 million (£116 million) earlier this summer. If Newcastle United can be convinced to sell Isak, then the fee would eclipse that amount.
As it stands, Newcastle is trying to do a deal for the RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko. It is said to value Isak at as much as $199 million (£150 million) and has so far shown no intention of losing its star man.
"I think Isak would suit Liverpool’s style perfectly because of his movement, his runs in behind and his finishing," Riise said.
"Look at Darwin Nunez. In the last couple of years, he’s had so many chances from making those runs. If Nunez had a bit more luck — or composure — in front of goal, he’d have scored an unbelievable amount.
"I think Alexander Isak is a step up. He’s calmer, more deadly in front of goal, and maybe smarter with his movement. So I think Isak fits Liverpool better — especially with the way we play.
"I get why Liverpool are going all in for him. He could be that missing link up front."
Wirtz made his first appearance at Anfield for Liverpool on Monday, starring in a victory over the Spanish side Athletic Club. And Riise is looking forward to seeing more of him in the coming months.
"Just look at what he’s done at Leverkusen — he’s unbelievable," Riise, speaking OLBG, said. "But coming to the Premier League is a different step.
"The speed, sharpness, and quality here is another level, both in your team and your opposition. So it’s a different ball game.
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"The money spent on him makes sense because every club wanted him. I think he fits perfectly in terms of vision, technique, and style.
"Even in pre-season, you could see how he’s trying to find Mo Salah between the lines with his passing. That’s why I think Isak would also be perfect — the connection between them would be special."
Liverpool.com says: The idea of adding Isak to an already mouthwatering attack is hugely exciting. Wirtz and Salah looked very sharp against Athletic Club, while Cody Gakpo scored twice.
Hugo Ekitike was very good as well, while there is Rio Ngumoha to think about. If Isak does arrive, Arne Slot will have lots of options and different ways of playing.
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