Slot ready to ‘sanction’ more exits as ‘big move’ for striker Isak continues

Liverpool’s summer overhaul is far from over, and manager Arne Slot seems prepared to continue reshaping his squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. The Dutchman is reportedly ready to approve more departures as Liverpool intensifies its pursuit of Newcastle United’s prolific striker, Alexander Isak.

After already making several bold moves this summer, Liverpool is now aiming to secure one of the Premier League’s most lethal forwards. However, such ambition comes at a cost, and Slot appears ready to balance the books through additional player exits.

Sources close to Anfield confirm that the Reds are open to letting three more players leave as part of their long-term strategy to fund the potential acquisition of Isak. The names on the exit list? Academy products Luca Stephenson, James McConnell, and Lewis Koumas.

Though none of the three youngsters have made a significant impact in Liverpool’s senior side, they have attracted attention from Championship clubs and overseas teams who believe they can unlock their potential with regular minutes.

While their sales might not fetch massive transfer fees, every bit counts—especially after Liverpool saw their £100+ million offer for Isak rejected by Newcastle. The club is expected to return with an improved bid that could push total summer spending beyond £400 million.

The urgency of the situation is heightened by Slot’s preparations for the Community Shield clash against Crystal Palace on August 10, following Liverpool’s double-header with Athletic Bilbao on Monday. Slot is determined to shape a squad capable of challenging on all fronts, and that requires both firepower and flexibility.

Adding Isak to a frontline already featuring Darwin Núñez and Cody Gakpo would give Liverpool one of the most versatile attacks in Europe. But the future of Darwin Nunez remains uncertain, with strong links to Al-Hilal suggesting he could be the next big name to depart Merseyside.

Elsewhere, Luis Diaz’s £60 million switch to Bayern Munich has already injected crucial funds into the club’s budget. Yet, reports suggest that additional exits are necessary to fully back Slot’s vision. One player almost certain to move is Harvey Elliott, who is eager for more regular playing time to enhance his chances of making England’s 2026 World Cup squad.

Despite questions over his willingness to integrate younger players, Slot is starting to show signs of faith in Liverpool’s next generation. Talents like Trey Nyoni have impressed during pre-season and could see valuable game time in midfield roles this season.

Then there’s Rio Ngumoha, the 16-year-old winger tipped to be Liverpool’s next breakout star. With dazzling footwork and an eye for goal, Ngumoha is expected to feature more prominently once he turns 17 at the end of August.

Slot’s cautious approach during his first season at Anfield—when ten players played over 28 league matches—may have stemmed from adapting to the Premier League’s pace. But with one full campaign behind him, the Dutchman is ready to embrace bolder decisions, both tactically and in the transfer market.

As Liverpool continues to revamp its squad, all eyes will be on whether the club can land Isak, a move that would not only shake up the Premier League title race but also send a clear message that the Reds are returning to elite contention.

And if this striker chase comes to fruition, expect more exits, more reshuffling, and possibly more fireworks before the transfer window slams shut.