Alan Shearer has cautioned Alexander Isak that he would not be guaranteed a starting spot at Liverpool, following Hugo Ekitike's impressive debut for the Reds. Ekitike, who joined Liverpool from Eintracht Frankfurt in a deal worth £69 million plus £10 million in add-ons, scored and assisted in a 4-2 win over Bournemouth on Friday night.
Shearer took to social media to voice his opinion, writing: 'Surely any forward thinking of going to Liverpool, will be having second thoughts now having to play second fiddle to the brilliant Ekitike all season?' The Newcastle legend's comments come as Isak continues to push for a move to Anfield, having refused to play for Newcastle in an attempt to force a transfer.
Liverpool have had a bid of £110 million plus £10 million in add-ons rejected by Newcastle for Isak, and have yet to return with an improved offer. The Swedish striker has reportedly burned his bridges with the Magpies and is desperate to join Liverpool, where there is a vacancy in attack following the sales of Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz, and the tragic passing of Diogo Jota.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has made it clear he wants another attacker, stating before the Bournemouth game: 'I see Hugo mainly as a No.9 that could also play from the left or together with another No.9. We need to have one more attacker at least.'
Isak has not been training with Newcastle, but manager Eddie Howe insists there is a way back for the 25-year-old. 'I want him to play. I want him to train,' Howe said. 'There is no change to the situation. Alex's situation has been unchanged for a while and that will continue to be the case.'
