Report: Liverpool eyeing move to sign Premier League striker | OneFootball

Liverpool Forced Into January Reassessment After Isak Injury Blow

Liverpool’s season has taken an abrupt and unwelcome turn following Alexander Isak’s serious injury, an episode that now dominates internal discussions at Anfield. As reported by Caught Offside, the Sweden international was hurt during the win over Tottenham Hotspur and now faces months on the sidelines, leaving Arne Slot short of a central figure in his attacking structure.

“Alexander Isak’s serious injury against Tottenham Hotspur has dealt Liverpool a major blow at a pivotal stage of the season, forcing a significant reassessment of both tactical plans and transfer strategy,” sources close to the agents industry told Caught Offside. That assessment is already underway, both on the training pitch and in recruitment meetings.

Isak Absence Changes Short and Long Term Planning

Isak’s importance to Slot’s system cannot be overstated. The report notes that “Isak’s absence is particularly damaging given his importance to Liverpool’s attacking structure,” and crucially adds that “with recovery expected to take several months, this is not a short-term problem, it is one that could define Liverpool’s season.”

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This timing could hardly be worse. Liverpool are navigating domestic and European commitments while also dealing with Mohamed Salah’s absence at the Africa Cup of Nations. With Salah unavailable and Isak injured, “Liverpool’s frontline suddenly looks thin,” a reality that places immediate pressure on internal solutions.

Ekitike and Wirtz Central To Slot’s Immediate Response

Attention has quickly shifted to Hugo Ekitike, who found the net in the same match Isak was injured. According to the report, “the young forward is now the most natural option to lead the line, and Slot is expected to show faith in him as the primary centre-forward.” That faith may define the coming weeks.

There is also a tactical wrinkle under consideration. “Florian Wirtz could be asked to take on a more advanced role,” with growing belief that Slot may use him as a “false nine” or grant him freedom between the lines. It would be a calculated adjustment, prioritising control and creativity over a traditional focal point.

Semenyo and Igor Thiago On Liverpool Radar

Behind the scenes, recruitment planning has intensified. One name under discussion is Antoine Semenyo. The Ghana international is “admired for his versatility, physicality, and Premier League experience,” while his ability to play wide or centrally fits Liverpool’s current needs. His existing relationship with sporting director Richard Hughes only adds to his appeal.

Another player being tracked is Brentford striker Igor Thiago. The report highlights that he “has impressed with his goalscoring exploits in the Premier League this season,” scoring “11 goals in 17 league appearances so far this season.” Liverpool see him as a stylistic fit, but Brentford are reluctant sellers unless an extraordinary bid arrives.

With injuries, international absences, and high stakes across competitions, Liverpool face a defining period. As Caught Offside rightly conclude, “how Slot balances internal solutions with potential January reinforcements could ultimately determine whether the Reds maintain their momentum.”

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As a Liverpool fan, this report raises as many concerns as it answers. The injury to Isak exposes squad fragility that many suspected existed beneath the surface. Winning the Premier League in Slot’s debut season raised expectations, yet sitting fifth during the title defence suggests structural issues that go beyond bad luck.

Relying heavily on Ekitike feels like a gamble rather than a strategy. He has promise, but placing the attacking burden on a developing forward while Salah is away looks risky for a club chasing silverware. The idea of Wirtz as a false nine is intriguing, but it also removes him from areas where he influences games most consistently.

The January targets inspire mixed reactions. Semenyo feels more like depth than a difference maker, while Igor Thiago’s numbers are impressive but Brentford’s stance means Liverpool could overpay in panic. Fans will question why contingency planning was not stronger given Salah’s predictable AFCON absence and Isak’s heavy workload.

Ultimately, supporters want clarity. Are Liverpool making short-term fixes, or building toward a coherent attacking future under Slot? This window could define whether this season stabilises or quietly slips away.