Alexander Isak behaviour may see Liverpool hand chance to striker fans adore

Alexander Isak's uncertain future could present Liverpool FC with the opportunity to give a chance to one of Arne Slot's forgotten stars. Newcastle will insist that the striker remains at St. James' Park until they have signed a replacement.

The Magpies are set to miss out on the signing of Benjamin Sesko, who is close to joining Manchester United. That will have repercussions for Isak, with the Sweden international unlikely to leave Newcastle unless a new striker is signed. Liverpool, who are interested in signing the £150million-rated star, may need to look elsewhere in their bid to improve Arne Slot's forward line.

Luis Diaz's departure has left Liverpool light of options on the left, where Isak or new signing Hugo Ekitike may have played in a glitzy attacking trio had the Newcastle star moved to Anfield. Cody Gakpo is another option.

However, Federico Chiesa may feel he deserves a chance to prove he can play regularly in the Premier League. Slot may choose to hand the Italy international the opportunity to play alongside Ekitike and Mohamed Salah.

Chiesa made only five Premier League appearances last season, including making his first start in the penultimate game of the campaign. The 27-year-old often played well in those matches, but displacing Diaz, Salah and Co. proved too difficult.

Slot said of Chiesa towards the end of last season: "I think the biggest quality Federico has is scoring goals, so the more you get him in and around the box, the more chance you have of him scoring a goal. For him to have an open shot in the 18-yard box is a very good chance for Federico because he's such a good finisher."

Replacing Diaz with Chiesa, who is loved by Reds fans, could therefore make sense. Liverpool will not be losing their ability to score goals, and would have a ready-made alternative who cost only £12.5m a year ago.

Chiesa has been linked with a departure from Anfield but he will surely remain if no other forward is signed. Slot should ultilise his talents.

By keeping Chiesa and not signing Isak, Liverpool would be able to refocus their resources into improving their defence. Slot has only three senior centre-backs in his first-team squad and needs more to ensure his team is not top-heavy.

Marc Guehi remains a target, although the England international would reportedly be willing to see out the final year of his contract at Crystal Palace. His addition would be the perfect end to an excellent transfer window for Liverpool.