Liverpool have taken the summer transfer window by storm, splashing over £170 million already – and they’re not done yet. Now, they’re reportedly eyeing Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak, a player who could cost them up to £130 million, potentially smashing the British transfer record.
So the big question is: how on earth can Liverpool afford this?
Let’s break it down.
Big Spending, Bigger Planning
So far this summer, the Reds have made serious moves in the market:
- Florian Wirtz: Signed in a potential British record £116m deal
- Milos Kerkez: Brought in for £40m
- Jeremie Frimpong: Secured for £30m
That’s a grand total of £186m, and yet, Liverpool are still actively pursuing another top-tier signing. Alexander Isak is currently at the top of their wishlist, with BBC Sport confirming the club has made a move toward signing the Swedish striker.
If the deal goes through, Liverpool’s spending could approach £300 million — nearly triple what they spent last season.
So Where’s All This Money Coming From?
Despite the eye-watering figures, Liverpool’s finances are surprisingly healthy. Here’s why:
- Premier League champions’ prize money: Winning the league earned them a cool £175m.
- Stadium expansion: The new Anfield Road End brought in extra matchday revenue with higher capacity.
- Lucrative Adidas kit deal: A new £60m-per-year partnership with Adidas kicks off in August.
- Past frugality: Over the past three seasons, Liverpool’s transfer spending has been far more restrained than their rivals.
According to football finance expert Kieran Maguire, Liverpool have spent only £325m over the last three-year PSR (Profit and Sustainability Rules) cycle – far less than clubs like Manchester United or Chelsea.
“They’re in an incredibly strong PSR position,” Maguire told BBC Sport. “Out of the traditional big six, they’ve spent the least over the three-year cycle. They still have plenty of wiggle room.”
Smart Spending, Not Just Big Spending
Liverpool’s approach isn’t just about throwing money at big names – it’s about spending smart.
Under CEO Michael Edwards, the club has operated with a strategy rooted in data and discipline. Think Moneyball meets modern football. They don’t panic-buy. They only invest when the player clearly adds value to the team.
Isak would be no exception. At 24, he’s a proven Premier League goalscorer with immense potential. While Liverpool are also monitoring the likes of Hugo Ekitike, Yoane Wissa, and Ollie Watkins, Isak remains their dream target.
Could Player Sales Help?
There may also be movement in the other direction. Though Luis Diaz is reportedly not for sale, Liverpool have turned down a £58.6m offer from Bayern Munich. However, Darwin Nunez could be on his way out, with Napoli and clubs from Saudi Arabia showing interest.
If Nunez is sold, that could further free up funds — or simply make room for Isak in the squad.
What About the Competition?
Newcastle don’t want to sell Isak. But despite their Saudi PIF backing, the Magpies may eventually have to listen to serious offers, especially if the player expresses a desire to leave.
Could other clubs hijack the move?
- Arsenal: They could afford him, but are closing in on Viktor Gyokeres.
- Manchester City: Not in the market for a striker.
- Manchester United: PSR limits and lack of Champions League make a deal unlikely.
- Chelsea: Already signed Liam Delap and Joao Pedro.
- Tottenham: Can afford Isak, but are not in a position that’s likely to appeal to the striker.
In short, Liverpool look like the only serious contender both financially and competitively.
The Bigger Picture
Liverpool’s calculated approach over the past few years — minimal net spending, long-term financial planning, and now increased revenue — has given them a rare luxury: the ability to make major signings without breaking the rules.
While Klopp once called a £100m signing “insane,” the market has evolved. And under new manager Arne Slot, the Reds are clearly building something fresh — and they’re doing it with ambition and sustainability in equal measure.
So yes, Liverpool can afford Isak — and maybe even more.
Final Word:
Liverpool’s spending spree isn’t reckless — it’s rewarded patience. With financial headroom, smart strategy, and new revenue streams, the club looks poised to make another major leap. If they land Isak, it won’t just be a blockbuster signing — it’ll be the product of years of quiet, calculated groundwork.
