Liverpool honing in on 'next Mbappe' spells bad news for Darwin Nunez and Alexander Isak

chiefs are set to scrap their pursuit of Alexander Isak and turn their attention to one of the next big stars of European football. Despite winning the Premier League on Sunday, which sparked euphoric scenes at Anfield following , Arne Slot is expected to be handed the funds to strengthen the squad this summer.

The club have long been linked with Isak, who scored against the Reds at Wembley as Newcastle prevailed in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley in March. Isak has struck 22 times in the Premier League this season, with only Mohamed Salah scoring more with 28. The Swedish striker is expected to be highly sought after this summer, with the likes of Arsenal, Barcelona, and Chelsea also reportedly interested.

However, according to , FSG have been put off by the potential fee. If Newcastle qualify for Champions League football next season, they reportedly want around £150million for their marquee player.

Instead, the club are said to be planning a move for Eintracht Frankfurt's Hugo Ekitike. The 22-year-old has excelled in Germany this season, scoring 22 goals and notching 10 assists in 45 club games.

The French under-21 international arrived on loan from PSG in January 2024 before making his move permanent for £30million last summer. He's since been lauded for his speed and ability on the ball, and fans and pundits have compared him to Kylian Mbappe back in France.

However, Ekitike, who scored in the Europa League quarter-final defeat against Tottenham, is contracted to Frankfurt until 2029. While he would cost considerably less than Isak, given his potential, Liverpool are still likely to have to spend big to secure his services.

The windfall from their title win and Champions League qualification will undoubtedly boost funds, though. Furthermore, their intention to pursue the young forward would almost certainly spell the end for Darwin Nunez at Anfield.

The Uruguayan's future already appeared in serious doubt amid his lack of game time this season . His inevitable sale could further fund a bid for Ekitike, who is also eligible to play for Cameroon at international level.