Liverpool 'considered' Marcus Rashford in shock move as six Isak alternatives emerge

Liverpool reportedly considered making a move to sign Manchester United star Marcus Rashford earlier this summer. The Reds are in the market for attacking reinforcements, though Newcastle's Alexander Isak remains their top target in the final third.

Arne Slot's side are prepared to break the British transfer record for the second time this summer to acquire the services of the Sweden international, with an offer in the region of £130million reportedly being considered.

However, Newcastle are insistent that their No. 14 will remain at St James' Park next season, and their reluctance to entertain any offers for the 25-year-old has prompted Liverpool to scour the market and shortlist alternative options.

According to the Daily Mail, the Reds have a six-man shortlist of alternatives to Isak, with the club expected to offload Darwin Nunez - may that be to Napoli or a Saudi Pro League outfit - and replace him with a marquee acquisition.

Eintracht Frankfurt's Hugo Ekitike is among those names, as well as Real Madrid's versatile forward Rodrygo. England international Rashford has also been 'floated' as an idea at Anfield, but it has not progressed beyond that point yet.

The United academy graduate is expected to leave his boyhood side in the coming weeks after falling out of favour under Ruben Amorim last season, with Barcelona and Bayern Munich among his admirers.

Liverpool have also spoken with Aston Villa to discuss Ollie Watkins, who is admired by United and Arsenal. Talks have been held with Brentford too over Yoane Wissa, with reports recently suggesting that the Congolese international is hoping to secure a move away from the Gtech Community Stadium amid interest from Tottenham and Nottingham Forest.

The final name on Liverpool's shortlist is said to be Victor Osimhen, who is currently pushing for a return to the Turkish League. The Nigeria international has no intention of remaining at Napoli and forced a January exit to Galatasaray previously, which could now become permanent.

Saudi sides have pushed to sign Osimhen previously but he wants to remain in Europe, though the finances involved have proven to be a deterrent for his long list of Premier League suitors, including Chelsea. It remains to be seen whether Liverpool would be willing to match his financial demands, or that of other targets, if Isak stays put on Tyneside.