The Athletic FC: What will Liverpool look like next season?

Liverpool have already invested £260M this summer, yet their finances remain stable due to player sales. This financial health means a potential signing like Alexander Isak could be affordable. Let's explore what this means for the squad.

Lewis Diaz's sale to Bayern Munich suits all parties: Diaz gains a better contract, Bayern fills a left-wing gap, and Liverpool profits while opening opportunities for younger talents like Rio and Gakpo. This strategic move reflects Liverpool's squad evolution.

Diaz's flexibility was valuable last season, playing across forward roles including as a false nine. However, Liverpool's attacking depth with players like Cody Gakpo and Darwin Núñez means his departure won't leave a void, showcasing the squad's versatility.

Liverpool's 2023-24 title-winning team was solid and adaptable, excelling in various match phases without glaring weaknesses. Their style shifted from Klopp's high press to a more controlled approach under Jürgen Klopp's successor, emphasizing early goals and game management.

New fullbacks Milos Kerkez and Jeremy Frimpong bring aggressive attacking runs, supporting wingers and stretching defenses. This forward mindset enhances Liverpool's offensive options but requires balancing defensive duties to avoid vulnerability on counterattacks.

Preseason games reveal risks with fullbacks pushing high, sometimes leaving gaps for counterattacks. Liverpool must manage this balance carefully, ensuring midfielders and center backs cover spaces to maintain defensive solidity while exploiting attacking strengths.

Liverpool's best XI is fluid, reflecting a 'horses for courses' approach. The squad's depth allows tactical flexibility to break down different opponents, adapting personnel and formations to exploit specific match situations effectively.

Three tactical scenarios illustrate Liverpool's adaptability: 1) Breaking down low blocks using overlapping fullbacks and creative midfielders; 2) Transition games requiring athletic wingbacks and physical midfielders; 3) High-stakes matches emphasizing control with experienced players and a back three.

Alexander Isak, contracted to Newcastle until 2028, is a potential Liverpool signing that could break British transfer records at £120M. His all-around attacking skills, including goal scoring and off-ball movement, make him a valuable asset beyond just finishing.

Isak excels at drifting wide, dropping deep, and linking play, often outmaneuvering defenders like Virgil van Dijk. His dribbling and quick decision-making create scoring opportunities, making him a versatile striker who can adapt to Liverpool's dynamic attacking style.

Isak wouldn't need to be Liverpool's main goal scorer; with Mo Salah and others, he can share the scoring load. His ability to pin defenders, break lines, and facilitate midfield play adds tactical depth, allowing Liverpool to maintain their attacking potency.

Liverpool's pressing strategy last season minimized Salah's defensive workload, allowing him to conserve energy for attack. If Isak joins, similar tactical adjustments may be needed to balance defensive pressing with offensive output, potentially involving players like Jeremy Frimpong.

Overall, Liverpool's squad improvements and potential Isak signing position them as strong Premier League favorites. Their blend of tactical flexibility, attacking versatility, and strategic squad management aims to sustain success across multiple competitions in the 2024 season.

While Liverpool boasts attacking depth, their center-back options are limited to Van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté, with little cover. Strengthening this area is crucial to avoid past issues like those following Van Dijk's injury, ensuring defensive resilience alongside offensive firepower.