Liverpool officially announced on Monday evening the signing of Alexander Isak from Newcastle United, a record deal in English football, ending a long-running saga that had seen the Swedish striker and his former club feud since the start of the season.
With the signing of Isak on a long-term contract, worth a media report of £125 million ($168.86 million), Liverpool's transfer spending will rise to nearly £500 million.
The Swedish international will compete with French striker Ugo Ekitike, who joined Liverpool for £69 million and has already made a strong start to his career.
Isaac scored 23 league goals last season, helping Newcastle return to the Champions League after finishing fifth. He also scored in the League Cup final against Liverpool to give Newcastle their first domestic title in 70 years.
The player did not join Newcastle on their pre-season tour and was forced to train separately in a tense encounter with the club that manager Eddie Howe described as a "lose-lose situation.
Isaac accused Newcastle of breaking promises and misleading fans, in a statement confirming his desire to leave the northeastern club, saying the change was in "everyone's best interest."
In his first words after the official announcement, Isak told Liverpool's official website: "I feel great. It's been a long journey to get here. I'm so happy to be part of this project, this team, this club, and everything it represents. It's something I'm proud of and look forward to."
Press reports indicated that the 25-year-old player will join Liverpool on a six-year contract.
Isak is Liverpool's latest signing, having already secured a host of players, most notably German Florian Wirtz in another blockbuster deal, along with Ekitike, Dutchman Jérémy Frimpong, and Hungarian Milos Kirkes.
Liverpool tops the Premier League table with 9 points from three wins, over Bournemouth, Newcastle and Arsenal.
Newcastle, on the other hand, are in 17th place after a disappointing goalless draw with Leeds United in the third round, followed by a loss to Liverpool and a draw with Aston Villa.
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