Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler believes the Reds should sign Ollie Watkins over splashing “silly money” on Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak this summer. With a dominant Premier League title already secured, the focus now shifts to smart recruitment — and Fowler has a strong case for looking to Aston Villa’s top striker.

Premier League Champions Eye Reinforcements

Liverpool sealed the Premier League crown in style, dismantling Tottenham 5-1 at Anfield with four games to spare. While fans celebrated the title, behind the scenes, attention turned to bolstering the squad for the 2025/26 season. With a 15-point gap over second-placed Arsenal, Arne Slot’s side is now preparing to defend their throne.

Having only signed Federico Chiesa recently, Liverpool are expected to be active in the upcoming transfer window, with plans to add a left-back, centre-back, and striker.

Isak Too Pricey? Watkins a Realistic Target

Alexander Isak has become one of the hottest names in the market, but his price tag could exceed £100 million — a figure Fowler considers excessive.

“Isak’s a wonderful player, but Liverpool may not want to pay that,” Fowler told The I Paper. “They’ll look around. You could look at Ollie Watkins.”

The Aston Villa frontman was the subject of a £40 million bid from Arsenal back in January and remains on the radar of top Premier League clubs. Fowler acknowledges Watkins doesn’t fully align with Liverpool’s long-term recruitment model due to his age (29), but sees him as a perfect short-term option.

“He’s a tremendous player — established and experienced in the Premier League. I’d go and get him for a couple of years.”

Watkins Frustrated at Villa?

Despite netting 15 goals this season, Ollie Watkins showed signs of frustration after being benched by Unai Emery during both legs of Aston Villa’s Champions League quarter-final against PSG. Former Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves even suggested Watkins should explore a move elsewhere if he’s not feeling valued.

With his proven Premier League pedigree, tactical versatility, and sharp finishing, Watkins could offer Liverpool a reliable No. 9 without the eye-watering transfer fee that comes with names like Isak.

As Arne Slot builds his squad for the next campaign, Liverpool’s summer strategy may depend on balancing star power with smart, cost-effective signings — and Ollie Watkins could be the perfect fit.