Ranking Liverpool’s Top Three Striker Transfer Targets This Summer – Analysis | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Striker Search: Dr Phil Barter’s Top Three Transfer Targets

With a new era beginning under Arne Slot, Liverpool are actively assessing their striker options ahead of the summer transfer window. On the Anfield Index Transfer Market Metrics Podcast, Dr Phil Barter provided his top three forward choices for Liverpool, identifying players who could fit into Slot’s tactical system and provide long-term value.

Interestingly, Barter couldn’t separate Alexander Isak and Matheus Cunha for his top spot, while João Pedro of Brighton was his third choice.

1. Alexander Isak – The Elite Goal-Scorer Liverpool Need?

Barter has consistently rated Isak highly throughout the podcast series, describing him as one of the most complete strikers available. He highlighted Isak’s:– Premier League experience– Elite goal output (0.81 goals per 90 this season)– Strong movement and link-up play– Pace and finishing ability

“If you’re going to spend £100 million, he’s your number nine. Let’s just get away from anything else.”

Photo: IMAGO

For Liverpool, Isak would be a major statement signing, though his price tag (likely over £100 million) remains a challenge. However, Barter made it clear that Isak’s quality justifies the price, stating:

“He is a £100 million player and worth every penny.”

2. Matheus Cunha – The Versatile Attacker Liverpool Might Prioritise

On the other hand, Matheus Cunha offers something slightly different. While Isak is a pure goal-scorer, Cunha’s versatility and pressing ability could make him a more natural fit for Slot’s high-intensity system.

“He’s got serious minutes on the wing with Atletico and Red Bull, played the 10, so versatility comes into it.”

Photo: IMAGO

His ability to play across the front line, combined with a £62 million release clause, makes him an economically viable signing for Liverpool. Cunha’s speed and pressing ability were also highlighted:

“That would give us a definite attacking output at pace… nearly 34kph top speed is an exceptional speed.”

Unlike Isak, Cunha’s value is not just in goals but in his overall contribution. If Liverpool prioritise a player who can rotate across multiple roles, Cunha could be the preferred choice over Isak.

3. João Pedro – A Creative False Nine Option

For Barter, João Pedro came in as his third choice, offering a different profile to both Isak and Cunha. The Brighton forward is known for his:-Link-up play and creativity– Strong technical ability– Flexibility in deeper attacking roles

“João Pedro is the most Bobby-like forward we’ve looked at.”

Photo: IMAGO

Barter suggested that Pedro would suit Liverpool if they wanted to tweak their system, moving towards a false nine approach rather than a traditional striker. However, he acknowledged that Pedro’s goal-scoring numbers are not at Isak’s level, stating:

“Pedro is more of a creator, whereas Cunha and Isak are the goal threats.”

This makes Pedro a strong alternative if Liverpool decide to focus on playmaking over finishing in their striker recruitment.

Final Thoughts – Who Should Liverpool Sign?

Barter ultimately couldn’t separate Isak and Cunha for the top spot, showing how Liverpool’s striker decision depends on their tactical priorities. If they need a pure goal-scorer, Isak is the man. If they want versatility and pressing ability, Cunha is the better fit.

João Pedro remains an intriguing third choice, offering a false nine option that could bring a new dynamic to Liverpool’s attack.

With Luis Díaz and Darwin Núñez potentially leaving, Liverpool may need more than one forward this summer. Could they secure both Isak and Cunha? As Barter put it:

“The numbers aren’t that far off. If you’re selling Núñez and Díaz, the money is there.”

Liverpool’s transfer strategy will define their attack for years to come, and these three names are right at the top of the shortlist.