Ex-Liverpool chief shares two theories behind FSG spending as Reds sign Alexander Isak

Liverpool broke the British transfer record on transfer deadline day, finally completing a deal to sign Alexander Isak from Newcastle United.

Arne Slot won the Premier League title in a dream first season at Liverpool, and the Dutchman is aiming for even more success.

Liverpool splashed the cash on Florian Wirtz this summer, while also adding Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, Hugo Ekitike and Giovanni Leoni, but still wanted another major addition.

The Reds targeted a deal for Alexander Isak, with the Newcastle United striker admitting his desire to leave St James’ Park.

After months of speculation, Isak has finally joined Liverpool in a new British-record transfer, believed to be worth around £125million.

Liverpool missed out on Marc Guehi, but the addition of Isak into Slot’s attack will strike fear into Premier League defences.

Photo by George Wood/Getty Images

Christian Purslow on Fenway Sports Group’s approach as Alexander Isak joins Liverpool

Liverpool were one of the lowest-spending teams in the Premier League last summer, keeping their powder dry ahead of a huge 2025 window.

The Reds have now spent more than £400million on new signings this summer, arming Slot with immense quality right now and for the future.

Former Liverpool managing director Christian Purslow has now offered his view on the Fenway Sports Group and their approach to spending this summer.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Purslow noted that FSG have been very balanced with their spending for around 15 years now, using sales to bring in new signings.

However, Purslow things FSG are ramping up their spending for two reasons, the first being a sense that Liverpool can dominate Premier League and even European football in the coming years.

Purslow also feels that Liverpool are sensing a potential change in spending rules in the Premier League, with the current rules limiting clubs such as Aston Villa and Newcastle.

Purslow believes that Liverpool are spending now before any future change, adding major talent for years to build a ‘terrifying’ side for long-term success.

“I think it’s absolutely fascinating,” said Purslow. “For most of their time in charge, which is now over 15 years, they’ve run a balanced transfer budget, basically outs paying for ins very successfully and being very competitive.

“But I think it’s fair to say we’re seeing a complete change of strategic approach by Fenway now, they’re making massive net investment, and I think the question is, why? My suspicion is two things.

“I think they look at the competitive position for the first time in many years, and they see a genuine opportunity to really dominate British football and even European football, in a way that perhaps hasn’t been true in the last few years, where they were happy to be an incredibly powerful competitor, but not trying for market leadership.

“And the second element is something we’ve all heard about all summer, which are the financial rules. These rules are heaven-made for a club like Liverpool. They have the most superb sponsorship revenue in football. Just look at the names, household brands around the edge of that pitch every week, they have massive levels of commercial turnover. They redeveloped Anfield very successfully. It’s packed every week, so their revenues are high. The rules favour a club like Liverpool, with high revenues, and I think they’re looking and sensing the mood may be changing about those financial rules.

“We’re starting for the first time to hear many fans say, ‘are these rules right that are preventing rich clubs from actually spending money?’, clubs like Newcastle, clubs like Villa. My sense is Liverpool are making hay while the sun shines, going for it, really loading up on talent, to put themselves in a position where they’re virtually impregnable while everything is behind them. I think it’s brilliant strategic management. It’s terrifying from a football standpoint, and other clubs should be fearful and respectful of the way they’re running their club,” he added.

Purslow may not be far wrong with Liverpool claims

This summer has brought an incredible shift in Liverpool’s spending, and FSG certainly appear to be sensing a chance for major success after last season’s Premier League title win.

Manchester City have taken a real step back, and questions linger over Pep Guardiola’s future, while Arsenal have gone more than five years without silverware.

Chelsea don’t look ready for a Premier League title challenge just yet, meaning Liverpool could build a real dynasty at the top of the table.

Liverpool will also be well aware that the likes of Virgil van Dijk, Alisson and Andrew Robertson aren’t getting any younger, so adding top young talent for the future will hopefully build a successful core.

Slot must still put it all together on the pitch, but with nine points from nine games without even looking close to top form, Liverpool are understandably title favourites this season.

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