Liverpool Can Afford Both Ekitiké AND Isak, AND Have Both in the XI

And Why Isak Would Be Cheaper Than Andy Carroll

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With his signing all but confirmed on a six-year deal, Hugo Ekitiké’s ability to play as a no.9, a false 9, a no.10 and from the left, means he would essentially be replacing Luis Díaz, just a tad more expensive, but a huge six years younger.

Yet Alexander Isak, omitted from Newcastle’s prestige friendly thrashing by Celtic (and reportedly sent home), doesn’t exactly sound off the table, when it comes to a move to Liverpool.

That doesn’t mean it will happen, but I believe the funds could be there, and Newcastle, while not forced to sell like last year, might find it helpful (as I’ve said all summer, based on a hunch and the relationship between Eddie Howe and his nephew, in charge of transfers, and their old boss, Richard Hughes, if the relationship is still strong).

One other option is that a deal is agreed for Ekitiké, as seems the case; but then Newcastle offer Isak before it’s all signed and sealed, with the Ekitiké deal off.

Whether or not Liverpool get Isak, or Ekitiké, or both, it’s important that people realise there really is some proper money to spend, and it’s self-generated.

And if not Isak, a big-name wide attacker could be signed, to replace those leaving.

Neutrals seem to think the Reds are spending like some financially-doped club, but the reality is that a number of factors have combined to mean Liverpool can spend absolutely massively, without it being costly. The difference is this is self-generated, self-funded, and not about racking up transfer debt or using dodgy methods, or sickly sportswashing.

No one seems to be factoring in what Liverpool will be raising, and gross spend numbers ignore what you sell. Some 20 years ago I was saying that gross spend was a stupid argument. Net spend is better, but flawed for different reasons.

However, you simply cannot focus on gross spend, as if you haven’t raised a ton of money.

“Liverpool have spent over £300m!” (Liverpool have recouped over £300.)

Liverpool will almost certainly sell Luís Díaz, Darwin Núñez, Harvey Elliott (for him to spread his wings, with a buyback), Tyler Morton, and possibly Federico Chiesa and Ben Doak (to develop, with a buyback), and others.

The majority of this article is for paying TTT Main Hub subscribers only. I explain all the massive rises in income, and look at how both could play together, if signed.