Liverpool will enter the 2026/27 season with significant problems at centre-forward. The club's big-money signing, Alexander Isak, has had a difficult first season at Anfield.
The Swedish striker arrived from Newcastle for a British record £125 million. However, he has scored only four goals in an injury-hit campaign.
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Given Isak's fitness history and his participation in the upcoming FIFA World Cup, relying on him for a full season would be risky.
Moreover, Liverpool have no senior backup available.
Hugo Ekitike, a £69 million signing from Eintracht Frankfurt, has been a bright spot with 17 goals in his rookie season.
But the Frenchman is sidelined with a serious Achilles injury and is not expected to return until possibly 2027.
This leaves sporting director Richard Hughes and likely new coach Andoni Iraola with few options up front. One potential solution is to promote from within the academy.
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Wales head coach Craig Bellamy has highlighted Lewis Koumas as a future No.9 for his country.
The 20-year-old spent last season on loan at Birmingham and Hull City, helping Hull gain promotion to the Premier League.
Koumas scored his first international goal in a friendly draw against Ghana. Bellamy praised his versatility and electric performances in training as a centre-forward.
"He could definitely be a huge asset for us on the wing but, due to our lack of nines coming through the system, we've used him a lot in training that way and he's really been electric," Bellamy said.
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Koumas has already played and scored for Liverpool's first team under Jurgen Klopp. He could provide Iraola with an option to rest Isak or cover for Ekitike's absence.
