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Liverpool’s Frontline Revolution: Why Ekitike and Isak Could Signal a Tactical Shift

As the summer transfer window heats up, Liverpool’s intent to evolve under Arne Slot is becoming clearer with every move. On the latest edition of The Daily Red Podcast by Anfield Index, Dave Hendrick unpacked the potential double signing of Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak, and what that could mean for a Liverpool side looking to reshape its forward line and challenge on all fronts.

Ekitike arrival signals renewed number nine strategy

James Pearce’s report about Hugo Ekitike’s medical in Hong Kong dominated the early discussion. As Hendrick put it, “The deal is 69 million pounds set and 10 million in add-ons… Here’s hoping we’re paying 79 million for the fella. Here’s hoping he delivers.” Hendrick confidently compared the total financial outlay to Manchester United’s move for Bryan Mbeumo, asserting that Liverpool’s structure is more efficient in the long-term.

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He highlighted how this move reflects not just necessity but also strategic design. “We need a number nine. We are desperate for a number nine. Darwin has not worked out,” Hendrick declared. He contextualised this by pointing to the tragic passing of Diogo Jota as a compounding factor in Liverpool’s need for central attacking reinforcements.

Ekitike’s profile is described as developing into something more “Benzema Bobby type,” which Hendrick clarified by saying: “If you look at 2022 Isak, the one Newcastle bought, and 2025 Hugo, they’re very, very similar. Near on carbon copies.” The comparison set the foundation for the idea that both players, though stylistically evolving, are tactically compatible.

Isak interest not dead — and Howe’s quotes fuel it

Hendrick was emphatic that the Isak links are far from over. “Right now, nobody, and I mean nobody, has ruled out Isak,” he insisted, citing the mixed messages from Newcastle and manager Eddie Howe. “Eddie Howe doesn’t shut down the idea that Isak could leave. In fact, he pours more fuel on the fire.”

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Hendrick also dissected a fascinating scenario regarding Saudi involvement: “What it sounds like is Newcastle trying to push us higher with a bid where they can claim we got offered 150 million from Al Hilal… and if we match it, they get the 150 million they wanted.”

Such manoeuvres hint at high-stakes negotiation, but Hendrick still sees Liverpool as a genuine destination, calling into question whether Isak would ever go to Saudi Arabia at this point in his career.

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Why both could fit together in Liverpool’s setup

Rather than pit Ekitike and Isak against each other, Hendrick proposed a setup where both co-exist. “Now for us, it would mean a change in shape… It would be to that 4-2-2-2,” he explained. With Florian Wirtz expected to feature in a creative role, the idea of Mo Salah, Isak and Ekitike rotating across two positions becomes a viable and intriguing proposition.

In terms of workload, the minutes stack up: “Isak tops out at probably 3,500 minutes in a season. And Hugo right now probably about 3,000 minutes in a season.” Hendrick believes that if Liverpool do sign Isak, it “won’t pull us off” Ekitike.

Howe’s Newcastle not tactically suited for both

What sets Liverpool apart in this equation is tactical suitability. “Newcastle couldn’t [play both], because number one, they’re a counterattacking team,” Hendrick noted. In contrast, “We dominate the ball and I think we’ll see even more of that this season.”

The implication is clear, Isak and Ekitike might not function together at St. James’ Park, but under Arne Slot, Liverpool could offer the ideal system for both to thrive in tandem.

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