Liverpool Football Club is reportedly preparing a significant gesture in their ambitious pursuit of Alexander Isak, aiming to finalize a British record transfer that could reshape their attacking lineup. The Merseyside club’s intense interest in the Swedish international underscores their commitment to strengthening the squad with top-tier talent, signaling a pivotal move in the upcoming transfer window.
Sources indicate that Alexander Isak has clearly communicated his desire to depart St James’ Park, and he is currently undergoing individual training away from his Newcastle United teammates who are on a pre-season tour in the Far East. This separation from the squad further fuels speculation regarding an imminent move, as negotiations between the clubs are believed to be progressing.
In a compelling display of their intent, Liverpool is reportedly considering leaving Isak’s highly preferred number 14 jersey vacant for the forthcoming season. This calculated move is seen as a strategic olive branch, demonstrating the club’s readiness to accommodate the striker’s personal preferences, thereby enhancing the appeal of a transfer to Anfield.
The significance of the number 14 shirt to Isak is well-documented; he has consistently worn it throughout his successful tenure at Newcastle and also during his time at AIK, only briefly donning number 19 at Real Sociedad. This deep personal connection to the jersey adds another layer of intrigue to Liverpool’s efforts to secure his signature.
Liverpool has already welcomed a host of new recruits for the upcoming campaign, including talents like Levi Colwill, Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez, and Jeremie Frimpong. However, the allocation of shirt numbers for these new arrivals has been momentarily paused as the club prepares for a significant kit manufacturer switch from Nike to Adidas later this week, a transition that has kept new signings waiting for their official jerseys.
Intriguingly, there is strong consideration within the club to potentially reassign Federico Chiesa’s number to Isak, showcasing the profound desire Liverpool possesses to acquire the Premier League’s second-highest scorer from the previous season. Chiesa, who arrived with high expectations last summer, has seen limited appearances, leading to speculation about his future at Anfield.
Isak’s allegiance to the number 14 shirt is rooted in his admiration for Arsenal legend Thierry Henry, despite murmurs that he could have inherited Newcastle’s iconic number nine after the departure of Callum Wilson. He consciously opted for 14, valuing its personal significance and connection to his idol, rejecting the opportunity for a more traditional striker’s number.
In an exclusive interview, Isak himself has publicly affirmed his loyalty to the number. “I would probably stay with No.14, yeah,” he stated, acknowledging the successful journey he has had while wearing it. He further elaborated on its importance: “He [Henry] was definitely one player I liked a bit extra. Many great players have had number 14, you have [David] Ginola from Newcastle as well. When I signed for Newcastle, out of the numbers that was available, I think 14 was the most iconic one.”
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