Liverpool are entering a crucial period of transition under manager Arne Slot, and one of the club’s top priorities is to find a striker who fits their new tactical philosophy. On the Anfield Index Transfer Market Metrics Podcast, expert Dr Phil Barter suggested three top transfer targets for the Premier League leaders in the summer transfer window: Alexander Isak, Matheus Cunha and Joao Pedro. Each player brings different qualities to the table, which would suit the varied tactics Slot could employ.
Alexander Isak – World class striker
Alexander Isak is the first name on the list and is also considered the optimal choice if Liverpool want to find a typical striker. The Swedish striker is in impressive form at Newcastle United with a scoring efficiency of up to 0.81 goals/game. He has extensive experience in the Premier League, good speed, sharp finishing ability and intelligent movement, helping the former Sociedad star become one of the most complete strikers in the tournament.
Barter rates Isak highly, even stating: “If you are willing to spend £100m, then this is the perfect number 9. No question about it.” (Anfield Index). However, Isak’s price tag is a big issue. Newcastle could demand more than £100m to let him go, and this is not an easy amount for Liverpool to spend in a transfer window when they need many additions.
However, in terms of skill, Isak is clearly a signing that could instantly improve Liverpool’s attack. Not only is he a killer in the box, but he also has the ability to link up play, which would suit the way Slot can deploy his attacking system. If Liverpool really want a top-class goalscorer, Isak is the number one choice.
Matheus Cunha – Versatile striker suitable for pressing style of play
Unlike Isak, Matheus Cunha is a more versatile striker who can play in multiple positions across the front line. The Brazilian has experience playing for Atletico Madrid, Red Bull Leipzig and currently plays for Wolverhampton Wanderers. He is not only a No. 9 but can also operate as a No. 10 or on the wing, giving Liverpool more options in attack.
Another strength of Cunha is his pressing ability, which is crucial in the system Slot can employ. According to Barter: “He has a speed of almost 34km/h, which is an incredible number and can help Liverpool play with high intensity.” In addition, Cunha’s price is more reasonable with a release clause of only around £62m, giving Liverpool more opportunity to invest in other positions.
Liverpool are also considering Cunha’s case.
However, Cunha’s weakness is his ability to score goals. He is not a top striker, but rather contributes to the overall play. If Liverpool need a player who can rotate between positions and increase the pressing, Cunha is the ideal choice. But if they want a real goalscorer, Isak is still the priority.
Joao Pedro – The creative false 9 option
Joao Pedro is the final name on the list but brings a completely different style. The Brazilian striker plays for Brighton and impresses with his link-up play and creativity in attack. According to Barter, “Pedro is the closest we’ve seen to a Firmino-like player.” This means he can play as a false nine, rather than a pure centre-forward.
Pedro has good individual skills, an impressive passing ability and the flexibility to create space for his teammates. However, he is not the type of striker who scores goals like Isak. Barter commented: “Pedro is more creative, while Isak and Cunha are direct goalscoring threats.” This makes Pedro a suitable choice if Liverpool want to change their attacking approach, instead of using a traditional centre-forward.
