Alexander Isak's moment of breakthrough for Liverpool was cruelly cut short by a devastating injury, plunging the club into a striker crisis just as the January transfer window opens.
A Dream Turned Nightmare in North London
When the Swedish international expertly controlled Florian Wirtz's pass and fired Liverpool into the lead at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, it appeared his stuttering £125 million move was finally igniting. Until that point, with a return of just two goals and one assist, the striker had even found himself relegated to the bench.
Instead of a cathartic celebration with the travelling fans, Isak lay in agony on the turf following a heavy challenge from Micky Van de Ven. After briefly requiring a stretcher, he was replaced, wincing as he hobbled down the tunnel. Early fears suggest a broken left leg, which could sideline him for several months.
The January Dilemma for Arne Slot
The immediate question for manager Arne Slot and the Anfield hierarchy is stark: do they need to sign a replacement? With the winter market now active, the answer appears increasingly to be yes. The Reds' attacking options are now threadbare, forcing the club to contemplate a swift intervention.
Fortunately, Liverpool may not need to sanction another record-breaking fee. Several experienced and available forwards could offer a short or long-term solution. Here, we examine the potential candidates who could answer Slot's emergency call.
Ivan Toney: The Proven Premier League Option
Since his 2024 move to Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia, Ivan Toney has been persistently linked with a Premier League return. Previously touted for Manchester United and Arsenal, the 29-year-old has scored 42 goals in 62 appearances in the Middle East.
With the 2026 World Cup just six months away, Toney is believed to be keen on a return to a top European league to bolster his England prospects. He could be available for a fee in the region of £20 million, presenting a relatively low-risk, proven option for Liverpool.
Dusan Vlahovic: The Serbian Goal Threat
Another perennial name in transfer rumours is Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic. The 25-year-old Serbian, who has scored 64 goals in 162 games for Juventus, is entering the final six months of his contract.
Juventus' General Manager, Damien Comolli, stated last summer the player was free to leave for the right offer. That situation could see him available for a cut-price deal, potentially under £20 million, offering a high-ceiling, longer-term investment.
Other Potential Contenders
Aleksandar Mitrovic, now at Al-Rayyan in Qatar, remains a formidable physical presence. The 31-year-old knows the Premier League well from his Fulham days and could serve as an effective short-term solution.
In a surprising left-field option, Brighton's in-form Danny Welbeck has been suggested. The 35-year-old has seven goals this season, but a move from a boyhood Manchester United fan to Anfield seems highly improbable.
Finally, Real Madrid's Endrick represents the most exciting wildcard. The 19-year-old Brazilian prodigy is out of favour under Xabi Alonso and could be available on loan, offering a chance to prove his doubters wrong.
A Critical Month Ahead
Isak's unfortunate injury has thrust Liverpool's planning into the spotlight. The club's decision in the coming weeks will be crucial for their season's ambitions. Whether they opt for a proven scorer like Toney, a prospect like Vlahovic, or a temporary fix, Arne Slot knows he cannot afford to leave his frontline undermanded for the pivotal months ahead.
