Swedish-Eritrean striker Alexander Isak still months from full fitness after Liverpool move

Liverpool striker Alexander Isak may need several more months to regain full fitness following his turbulent transfer from Newcastle United, according to fresh reports from England.

Isak, who was born in Sweden to Eritrean parents, endured a disrupted pre-season as he refused to train with Newcastle in an effort to force through his British record transfer to Liverpool late in the summer window.

Since completing the move, the 26-year-old forward has struggled to rediscover his sharpness, managing just one goal in six appearances across all competitions.

Liverpool journalist Lewis Steele revealed that Isak’s recovery could take longer than initially expected.

“The road to full fitness is a little bit longer than expected,” Steele explained. “There’s a report from one of the Newcastle guys saying they expect it to be three months until he’s fully fit. That is probably about right.”

The Swedish international joined Liverpool to bolster their attacking options under new boss Arne Slot, but his slow start has prompted concerns about his readiness for the Premier League champions’ demanding schedule.

Steele added that while there have been “glimpses” of the striker’s quality — citing a “lovely assist on Saturday” and his goal against Southampton — Isak is still short of the sharpness needed to lead the line consistently.

Liverpool’s medical staff are said to be managing his workload carefully to avoid aggravating any fatigue or lingering issues from his pre-season standoff.

With the club competing on multiple fronts, Slot remains hopeful that Isak will find his rhythm as the season progresses.