'You Might as Well Buy, Right?' - Ex-Liverpool Star Justifies Summer Spending amid Alexander Isak Saga

Liverpool’s heavy summer spending has raised eyebrows across Europe, but former Reds star Boudewijn Zenden believes it is a logical step as the club looks to consolidate last season’s success under Arne Slot.

Speaking to Sportnieuws.nl, Zenden argued that the financial outlay, reported to be in the region of €300 million, is simply Liverpool keeping pace with their ambitions.

“They often say: never change a winning team, right? Slot will want to perfect the successful style of play even further,” Zenden explained. 

PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports

“It will take some time at the beginning, but I do expect Liverpool to be the title favourite.”

A major talking point of the transfer window is Liverpool’s pursuit of Alexander Isak, with reports suggesting the Newcastle United forward could arrive at Anfield for a fee north of €150 million.

For Zenden, the Swedish striker would be a natural fit.

“Isak has already proven himself in the Premier League; he can score goals at the highest level,” he said. 

“With the way Liverpool plays, you need someone at the end of the line to finish chances, and Isak provides that. He should normally adapt more quickly than someone who hasn’t yet proven themselves in the English league.”

While big-money signings can boost a squad, they also pile pressure on the man in charge. Slot defied expectations in his first season after arriving from Feyenoord, winning over doubters within months despite being untested at a European superpower.

Zenden believes that Slot has shown he can handle the pressure and that spending was always inevitable after last season’s achievements.

“Last year, expectations were low because Slot wasn’t a big name yet. Now, after such a strong season, the bar is higher. 

“Whether you buy players or not, expectations will be there — so you might as well buy, right?” Zenden said with a grin.

Liverpool have made a strong start to the new Premier League campaign, collecting six points from their opening two matches, though performances have not been entirely convincing. For Zenden, however, the signs are promising.

“When you see what they can already produce, especially the willingness to fight until the very last second, that’s very good. That’s the mark of a champion, and it can only get better,” he concluded.

Liverpool’s credentials will face an early test this weekend when they take on Arsenal in what is already shaping up to be a pivotal clash in the title race.