In a transfer window filled with drama, Liverpool smashed the British transfer record to secure the signature of Swedish forward Alexander Isak from Newcastle United for a staggering $169 million (£125 million). The deal, finalized on the last day of the transfer window after a prolonged saga that saw Isak go on strike, was heralded as a major coup for the Reds. However, former Premier League star Joleon Lescott has sparked controversy by claiming Liverpool may have underpaid for the 25-year-old striker, whose true value could be far higher.
The acquisition of Isak was no straightforward affair. After weeks of negotiations, Newcastle reluctantly allowed their star forward to leave, replacing him with Stuttgart’s Nick Woltemade. The $169 million fee eclipsed the previous British transfer record, signaling Liverpool’s ambition to dominate not only the Premier League but also the UEFA Champions League. Isak’s arrival at Anfield was seen as the final piece in a squad already tipped to challenge for major honors under manager Arne Slot.
Lescott, a former England international with 26 caps, didn’t mince words when discussing the transfer on The Mixer, presented by Sky Bet. “Under. I’d have paid whatever,” Lescott declared. “I’d have paid whatever they [Newcastle] wanted. Liverpool already were winning the league. They needed someone to make the difference in the Champions League. I think Isak is that.”
Isak made his highly anticipated debut for Liverpool in their Champions League opener against Atletico Madrid on September 17, 2025, at Anfield. While he didn’t find the back of the net, the Swedish striker showcased his immense potential during his 58 minutes on the pitch. His relentless pressing and intelligent movement earned praise from fans and pundits alike. Liverpool’s manager, Arne Slot, was equally impressed, noting Isak’s fitness and readiness despite only training with the team for two weeks.
“I was positively surprised by how fit Isak was during that 60 minutes,” Slot said. “But that maybe, probably, tells you that it might be a difference to sign a 20-year-old from a different league or a 25- or 26-year-old that is used to playing in this league. Although he only trained for two weeks, he has so many games under his belt that he is probably more able to be ready for 60. But I wasn’t surprised by his quality because that’s what we all know.”
Lescott believes Isak’s arrival has transformed Liverpool into serious contenders for the Champions League title. Out of the six English clubs competing in the competition this season, he singled out Liverpool as having the best chance of lifting the trophy, largely due to Isak’s presence. “I think they’re in a good position for the Champions League,” Lescott said. “But the Isak signing… Isak is a Man of the Match player.”
Comparing Isak to Liverpool’s talismanic winger Mohamed Salah, Lescott highlighted the different dimensions the two players bring to the team. “I think Mohamed Salah is more of just a game-winner. He is sometimes not involved and doesn’t shine,” Lescott explained. “Isak will occupy defenders in a different way. Liverpool now have two players who can get 20 or 30 goals in a season. Isak is that good, and they won’t be surprised by him.”
Despite his optimism about Liverpool’s prospects, Lescott stopped short of naming them favorites for the Champions League, reserving that honor for defending champions Real Madrid.
Lescott’s bold claim that Liverpool underpaid for Isak has raised eyebrows, given the astronomical $169 million fee. However, his argument hinges on Isak’s potential to be a transformative figure for the Reds, particularly in Europe. The Swedish striker’s blend of pace, technical ability, and clinical finishing makes him a unique asset, capable of unlocking defenses in ways that complement Liverpool’s existing attacking options.
Isak’s proven track record in the Premier League, combined with his age and adaptability, suggests that Liverpool may have secured a player whose value could soar even higher in the coming years. For a club with ambitions of dominating both domestically and in Europe, the investment in Isak could prove to be a masterstroke.
As Liverpool fans revel in the arrival of their record-breaking signing, Lescott’s comments have added a new layer of intrigue to the transfer. Was $169 million truly a bargain for a player of Alexander Isak’s caliber? If his debut performance against Atletico Madrid is any indication, the Swedish star is poised to justify the hype and potentially lead Liverpool to glory in the Champions League. For now, Anfield is buzzing with excitement—and perhaps a touch of shock—at the possibility that they may have landed one of football’s brightest talents for less than his true worth.