Liverpool’s Transfer Balancing Act: Why Steve Nicol Has a Point About Alexander Isak

Pre-season tours often present more questions than answers, and Liverpool’s recent outings in the Far East were no exception. While Arne Slot may not be losing sleep over a win and a loss in friendlies, the flaws exposed—particularly against AC Milan—have not gone unnoticed.

For all the excitement surrounding the potential signing of Alexander Isak, it’s a conversation about balance, not just brilliance. Former Liverpool defender Steve Nicol made headlines this week, highlighting what he sees as a gaping hole in Liverpool’s current squad—and warning that the Swedish striker won’t be the man to fill it.

Defensive Vulnerabilities Exposed

In their match against AC Milan, Liverpool were carved open on the counter repeatedly. All three goals they conceded came from swift transitions, a troubling pattern given the club’s aspirations to defend their Premier League crown this season.

Slot’s tactical blueprint is still bedding in, and with a blend of first-team regulars and fringe players on show, it’s difficult to draw definitive conclusions. Still, defensive fragility isn’t a problem to leave until September. The squad currently features only three senior centre-backs, and one of them is frequently sidelined with injuries. It’s not difficult to understand Nicol’s concern.

Steve Nicol Questions Priorities

Speaking on ESPN FC, Nicol delivered a candid assessment of Liverpool’s summer strategy.

“I won’t be dancing on the table if Liverpool sign Isak for £120m tomorrow. It seems a little weird,” he said.

“I want my centre-back. Had Ekitike not been at Liverpool, I would be dancing on the table if they turned around and signed Isak.”

“But the fact that they have Ekitike, now I’m thinking it kind of feels like something you don’t need. While I think it’s clear there’s a big hole there that needs filled, yet you’re going to spend £120m on something you probably don’t need. It’s kind of weird.”

Nicol’s frustration is rooted not in doubt over Isak’s quality, but in the timing and prioritisation. Spending what may be a British record transfer fee on another attacker while glaring issues persist at the back sends a mixed message.

Centre-back Reinforcements Still Likely

That said, Nicol’s concern does not mean Liverpool are ignoring the problem. Talks have been ongoing with multiple targets. Giovanni Leoni of Parma has been closely tracked, and there’s growing optimism around a potential move for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi.

Given the magnitude of the Isak deal, it’s understandable that it has taken centre stage. But Liverpool’s recruitment team, led by Richard Hughes, are well aware that elite-level squads need strength across the pitch, not just up front.

Isak Deal Signals Ambition, not Tunnel Vision

Alexander Isak’s potential arrival would mark a statement of intent. He is one of Europe’s most technically gifted forwards, capable of playing across the front line and still only 25. With Hugo Ekitike already at the club, Slot will have options aplenty in attack.

Yet football seasons are not won on attacking flair alone. If Slot is to build on his Premier League-winning debut campaign, defensive reinforcements are not optional—they are essential. Nicol’s observations reflect that truth.

And while Liverpool fans will be thrilled at the idea of Isak gracing Anfield, they’ll be even more satisfied if a commanding centre-half joins him before the window closes.