Liverpool announced on September 1, 2025, the signing of Swedish striker Alexander Isak from Newcastle for £130 million (R$953 million), marking the most expensive transfer in Premier League history. The deal, finalized on the last day of the European transfer window after weeks of negotiations and resistance from Newcastle, positions Isak as the third most expensive player in world football, behind only Neymar and Mbappé. However, the transfer sparked controversy, with former Real Madrid star Toni Kroos criticizing the high fee for a player he claims lacks global recognition. The signing reflects Liverpool’s ambition, as the current English champions aim to strengthen their squad to remain competitive in the Premier League and Champions League. The saga surrounding Isak, combined with Kroos’ remarks, stirred the market and fueled debates about the astronomical sums in football.
The transfer was marked by tensions. Isak, aged 25, pushed for his exit from Newcastle, refusing to train or play in the opening matches of the 2025/26 season. The player’s pressure and Liverpool’s record offer overcame Newcastle’s initial reluctance, which demanded even higher figures. The club, after securing attacking replacements, released the Swede, who signed a contract until 2031.
- Factors driving the deal: Isak’s performance, with 62 goals in 109 games for Newcastle, justified the interest.
- Financial impact: Liverpool invested around R$3.1 billion in the window, including Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike.
- Market reaction: The transfer reignited discussions about inflation in English football.
The signing, confirmed by sources like the BBC and journalist Fabrizio Romano, cemented Liverpool as the biggest spender in the 2025 European market.
Toni Kroos’ reaction to the transfer
Toni Kroos, retired since 2024 after a stellar career at Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, did not hold back in criticizing the fee paid for Isak. On a podcast with his brother Felix, the former German midfielder called the £130 million sum “exaggerated.” He highlighted the player’s lack of global fame, stating that “half our listeners have never heard of Isak.” Kroos questioned whether the Swede’s performances justify such a price, noting his limited recognition compared to stars like Neymar or Mbappé.
Kroos’ critique reflects broader concerns about modern football’s financial landscape. He suggested that the English market, with its vast resources, inflates prices for players yet to reach global stardom. While acknowledging Isak’s potential, Kroos emphasized that the fee is disproportionate to his current fame.
- Key statement: “It’s a lot of money, no doubt. Judge for yourselves.”
- Context of the critique: Kroos has previously voiced concerns about rising football spending.
- Repercussion: His comments sparked debates among fans and analysts on social media.
Kroos’ ironic tone, known for his candidness, added fuel to an already contentious transfer.
On set with Isak 📸🔴 pic.twitter.com/uItIBMFc7J
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) September 3, 2025
Isak’s performance and expectations at Liverpool
Alexander Isak joins Liverpool with a strong track record. In the 2024/25 season, he scored 23 goals and provided 6 assists in 34 games for Newcastle, finishing as the Premier League’s second-top scorer behind Mohamed Salah. His versatility, with 42 completed dribbles and 55 ball recoveries, makes him a complete forward, capable of playing as a center-forward or in deeper roles. The signing aims to bolster Liverpool’s attack as they chase a 21st English title and a strong Champions League campaign.
The player, previously with Borussia Dortmund, Real Sociedad, and AIK, is likened to Zlatan Ibrahimović for his technique and 1.92m frame. At Liverpool, Isak will need to maintain the level of stars like Salah and fit into Arne Slot’s attacking system, succeeding Jürgen Klopp. The Dutch manager banks on the Swede’s speed and finishing to elevate the team’s level.
Transfer numbers and records
Isak’s transfer set new financial benchmarks in English football. The £130 million fee surpassed Liverpool’s previous record for Florian Wirtz (£116 million). The 2025 transfer window was historic, with Liverpool spending £489 million on reinforcements, a global record for a single window.
- Top 5 most expensive football transfers:
- Neymar (Barcelona → PSG, 2017): €222 million
- Kylian Mbappé (Monaco → PSG, 2018): €180 million
- Alexander Isak (Newcastle → Liverpool, 2025): €145 million
- Ousmane Dembélé (Dortmund → Barcelona, 2017): €140 million
- Philippe Coutinho (Liverpool → Barcelona, 2018): €135 million
- Liverpool’s total investment: Approximately R$3.1 billion across six signings.
- Impact on Newcastle: The sale enabled signings like Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa.
The figures reflect Liverpool’s financial might, driven by £620 million in 2024 revenues and a new Adidas deal expected to boost earnings to £750 million in 2025/26.
Context of the transfer saga
Isak’s transfer was one of the longest and most tumultuous of the 2025 window. Liverpool’s interest surfaced in July, but Newcastle held firm, initially demanding €170 million. Isak, frustrated, opted out of pre-season and early Premier League games, citing “broken promises” by the club. This drew criticism from Newcastle legend Alan Shearer, who called the player’s stance “harmful to football.”
The deal closed after Newcastle secured attacking replacements, including Nick Woltemade (£69 million) and Yoane Wissa (£55 million). Isak’s pressure and Liverpool’s record bid finalized the transfer on the window’s last day. The player expressed relief and excitement upon joining the Reds: “I’m happy everything is done and I can get back to work.”
Market and fan reactions
Isak’s transfer elicited mixed responses. Liverpool fans celebrated the signing as a statement of intent, but the high fee raised eyebrows. Analysts like Tim Vickery noted that the price reflects Isak’s adaptation to the Premier League, reducing risks. Newcastle supporters mourned the loss of their vice-top scorer, with some criticizing his conduct during the saga.
- Expert opinions:
- “Isak is a complete player, but the price is steep,” said Jack Lang of The Athletic.
- “The English market inflates fees for proven players,” noted Vickery.
- Fan reactions: Liverpool fans rejoice; Newcastle fans are divided.
- Financial impact: The Premier League spent €3.56 billion in the window, led by Liverpool.
Kroos’ remarks amplified the debate, with some fans agreeing the fee is excessive, while others argue Isak’s potential justifies the investment.
Isak’s future at Liverpool
Isak’s arrival marks a new chapter under Arne Slot’s leadership. Liverpool, fresh off the 2024/25 Premier League title, aims to maintain domestic dominance and shine in Europe. Integrating the Swede into a squad with Wirtz and Salah will be key. With a contract until 2031, Isak faces high expectations to deliver results after the record investment.
His ability to score and contribute defensively could be a game-changer for the Reds. Fans hope he proves Kroos wrong and validates Liverpool’s bold move.
