Liverpool urged to make ambitious Newcastle transfer as Alexander Isak backed after criticism

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All the latest news and analysis from Anfield on the Liverpool Echo's dedicated LFC Facebook pageThe Italy international is one of Newcastle's most prized assets and while there has been speculation that they will be forced to sell a big-name player this summer if they don't qualify for Europe, reports seem to suggest that player is more likely to be ex-Everton winger Anthony Gordon, who himself has been linked with a switch to Anfield.The Magpies paid £52m sign Tonali from AC Milan in the summer of 2023 and reportedly want in excess of £80m if they were to sell him.And Smicer, who won the Champions League with the Reds in 2025, said: "In Arne Slot's first year at Liverpool, we didn't spend a lot of money but won the title. How much depends on if we are in the Champions League next season, as that is important for the club financially."We need to really pick the right areas where we need to strengthen the team.

I think on the sides, the wingers, and then maybe a bit at the back, we need some new blood."Sandro Tonali would be a big improvement. Gravenberch signed a new six-year contract last month, while the club is eager to tie Szoboszlai down to a new deal, but talks have not started with Mac Allister, who has two years left to run on his deal, while Curtis Jones is about the enter the final 12 months of his.But Smicer has no doubt that Isak, along with Hugo Ekitike, once he returns from his long-term injury, are the future of Liverpool's attack."I think the saga around Isak was, again, down to small details, which was a little frustrating and perhaps worked against the team because of the waiting," said the 52-year-old to football betting site BetVictor."Eventually, it happened, but then he missed pre-season and picked up an injury.

I think a lot of the players we signed last summer will be much better next season. We fought hard for him, and that's not only because we wanted him to stay for just one season."I just hope I think he's got much more to show and to give to Liverpool than he has so far.