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Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

Sat 9 May 2026 19:15, UK

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Alexander Isak’s constant injury issues and Hugo Ekitike’s long-term absence will see Liverpool enter the market for a new striker this summer.

Isak has missed the majority of his debut season at Liverpool after suffering a broken leg in December and a groin issue last month.

His absence has been compounded by fellow striker Hugo Ekitike rupturing his achilles tendon against PSG in April, and he is not set to return to action until late 2026.

As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, Liverpool look set to sign a new striker in the summer to bolster Arne Slot’s options following their respective struggles.

Liverpool’s transfer plans are being accelerated ahead of the summer as they edge ever closer to sealing Champions League qualification for another season.

Liverpool make striker transfer plan amid Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike concerns

Isak scored his first league goal since December against Crystal Palace last month, then missed the Reds’ trip to Man United, but is expected to feature in their final three games of the season.

He will be their only fit, recognised striker heading into the summer window, with a new centre-forward on Slot’s agenda alongside several other positions.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “Losing Ekitike to this long-term Achilles injury was a huge blow because he was probably the one shining light of all the signings they made last summer.

“Isak’s had a real difficult start to his Liverpool career, picking up another little niggle in the last few weeks.

“It’s vital for Liverpool and Isak that Isak has a good pre-season and comes back fully fit and firing for next season. Obviously, they might need to add to their striker options because of Ekitike’s injury.”

Liverpool are behind Bayern Munich in race for Anthony Gordon

Liverpool have long been linked with a move for Gordon, with his pacey, direct style of play believed to be a great fit for Slot’s tactics.

Talk around his future at Newcastle has ramped up ahead of the summer window, with Liverpool battling Bayern and Chelsea for his services as it stands.

He would provide an alternative striker option, despite being a winger by trade, but sources have told Football Insider that Bayern are leading the race for Gordon right now.

The England star’s preference is to move abroad, rather than stay in the Premier League.