In a story that has rocked both England and Spain, Liverpool could soon find themselves in an unexpected off-field clash — a transfer saga centered around their newest star, Alexander Isak. Barely a month after his record-breaking £125 million move from Newcastle United, the Swedish striker is already being linked with a sensational exit from Anfield. Reports from Spain claim Barcelona have identified him as a potential successor to their ageing forward, Robert Lewandowski.

The news has left Liverpool fans stunned. How could their marquee signing — the man brought in to lead Arne Slot’s new attacking era — already be the subject of transfer speculation? Yet, this is the reality of modern football, where big names rarely escape the spotlight, especially when Barcelona are involved.

It all began when former Spain and Barcelona midfielder Gaizka Mendieta suggested the Catalan giants are already planning for life after Lewandowski. Speaking to OLBG, he revealed:

“There were discussions in Spain about Isak joining Barcelona before he signed for Liverpool, who were stronger financially. Naturally, the best strikers will always be linked with Real Madrid and Barcelona. Lewandowski is still there now, but they’ll soon be looking for his replacement, and Isak will be considered.”

Mendieta’s remarks carried extra weight due to their timing. Barcelona are reportedly preparing to part ways with Lewandowski when his contract expires next summer. By then, the Polish veteran will be 37 and nearing the twilight of his career, despite scoring over 100 goals in four seasons for the club. Financial constraints are also expected to prevent Barça from renewing his deal. Thus begins their search for the next great number nine — and their eyes may turn to Merseyside.

At 26, Isak possesses everything Barcelona value in a striker: grace, technique, intelligence, and clinical finishing. He’s tall, fast, and tactically astute — reminiscent of the great forwards who’ve worn the Blaugrana shirt. Having previously played in La Liga with Real Sociedad, he’s no stranger to Spanish football, where his performances earned him continental admiration. To Barcelona, signing him would feel like reclaiming a talent who always belonged in Spain.

For Liverpool, however, this development comes at the worst possible time. Arne Slot is still assembling his new-look side, with Isak as the centerpiece — the man meant to succeed Mohamed Salah as Liverpool’s attacking talisman. The Reds fended off competition from top European clubs to secure his signature in a British-record £125 million transfer, a bold statement from Fenway Sports Group about their ambitions. Yet just weeks into his Anfield career, Isak’s name is being linked with Barcelona.

His start in Liverpool hasn’t been smooth. The forward joined late in the summer after a tense standoff with Newcastle United, having made it clear he wanted the move — a stance that frustrated Eddie Howe and saw him frozen out of training. That episode disrupted his preseason rhythm, leaving him short of sharpness when he finally signed for the Reds.

So far, Isak has made six appearances in all competitions, starting twice in the Premier League. While flashes of brilliance have been visible, he’s still finding his footing in a new team, league, and tactical setup. One goal in the Carabao Cup and an assist in the league are modest returns, but not unusual given the circumstances.

Liverpool fans have shown patience, aware that world-class talents often need time to adapt. Slot has defended his record signing, emphasizing that the adjustment process is natural. He’s been working closely with Isak to develop his chemistry with Darwin Núñez and Luis Díaz, building an attack that reflects Liverpool’s trademark high-pressing intensity. Slot sees Isak as more than a goalscorer — a complete forward capable of creating and leading.

Still, Barcelona’s renewed interest adds tension. Even before Isak has fully settled, whispers of a move away have unsettled fans. Mendieta’s remarks only reinforce what’s been circulating in Spanish media: Barcelona’s recruitment team has shortlisted several names to replace Lewandowski, including Erling Haaland and Julián Álvarez. While Haaland remains President Joan Laporta’s dream signing, his long-term Manchester City contract and massive wages make a deal improbable. Álvarez, now thriving at Atlético Madrid, is another option — but Isak stands out due to his age, experience, and stylistic fit. To Barça, he’s the perfect blend of youth, skill, and familiarity with Spanish football.

For Isak, the rumors are both flattering and frustrating. Ambitious and inspired by Barcelona’s golden era of Messi, Xavi, and Iniesta, he’s long admired the club. Yet sources close to him insist his focus is on succeeding at Liverpool, especially after such a high-profile transfer. Still, as football history shows, loyalty can be tested when a giant like Barcelona comes calling.

The timing of these reports hasn’t helped. Isak is currently on international duty with Sweden, who have endured a disastrous start to their 2026 World Cup qualifiers — one point from three matches and a 2-0 defeat to Switzerland. With Sweden facing Kosovo next, Isak hopes to rediscover his scoring touch to boost both national and club form before Liverpool’s crucial clash with Manchester United on October 19.

Meanwhile, Barcelona continue to plan their future. Lewandowski remains productive, already netting four goals this season, but everyone knows the club must prepare for his departure. Tight finances mean they must pursue smart, realistic targets — and Isak fits that profile perfectly.

At Anfield, Liverpool’s hierarchy remains calm but cautious. They understand Barcelona’s persistence — a reminder of the Philippe Coutinho saga that haunted the club years ago. While Liverpool profited financially from that sale, the disruption it caused lingered. This time, they’ll do everything to avoid a repeat.

Arne Slot has reportedly made it clear that Isak is “untouchable” and central to his long-term vision. The manager sees him as the foundation of Liverpool’s next great attacking era. Still, as experience shows, no player is ever completely off-limits in football.

For now, Isak remains Liverpool’s record signing and the most expensive player in British football history. The coming weeks will be crucial — can he silence the transfer talk with goals and performances that reaffirm his commitment? Or will the allure of Barcelona eventually prove irresistible?

Whatever happens, one thing is certain: this story is only beginning. And when Barcelona’s shadow looms over Anfield, the battle for a player’s future is never straightforward.