Liverpool are actively scouting for right-footed wingers who can create chances for Alexander Isak, as the club prepares to replace Mohamed Salah and address the lack of goals from their record signing. The £125m acquisition from Newcastle has managed only four goals in 21 appearances this season, a stark contrast to his prolific form at St James' Park.
Isak's Struggles and Partnership History
During the 2024-25 campaign, Isak formed a potent partnership with Jacob Murphy, a right-footed right winger, at Newcastle. Seven of Isak's goals were assisted by Murphy, highlighting the effectiveness of crosses from the right flank. In contrast, Liverpool's current setup features left-footed Salah, who prefers to cut inside and shoot, limiting the supply to Isak.
Manager Arne Slot acknowledged the tactical mismatch, stating: "That is definitely part of thinking about the replacement because since I have been here, and it is the same at a lot of clubs, it is mainly a left footer on the right and a right footer on the left."
Impact of Alexander-Arnold's Departure
Slot also noted the absence of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who joined Real Madrid last year. The right-back's deliveries from the flank were a key source of chances. "I have seen Alex scoring also a lot from crosses which were played from the right, right footed, Trent Alexander-Arnold crosses if you want to call them like that," Slot added.
The club is now prioritising a right-footed winger who can provide similar service to Isak. However, Slot emphasised a pragmatic approach: "We try to sign the best possible available player who we can afford. Something else which also happens at certain clubs is, 'ok, that is the best player in the world in that position, let's try and get him.' That is not how we work."
Liverpool's search for Salah's successor is expected to intensify in the summer transfer window, with the Egyptian set to depart at the end of the season.
