Liverpool have already beaten two Championship sides in pre-season but bigger games are can be viewed as opportunities.

Virgil van Dijk has revealed how he played a part in Florian Wirtz’s club record move to Anfield as he told him: “Liverpool is the place to be.” The Germany international joined the Premier League champions from Bayer Leverkusen last month for a fee which could rise to £116 million ($156m).

On their five signings so far, the club lead the way in Premier League spending having paid £240m on initial fees, with that potentially rising to over £250m when including add-ons. Any deal for Isak would see that figure shoot up to nearer £400m.

Liverpool's big-money investment on transfers is the result of long-term planning, club CEO Billy Hogan said, adding that winning a record-equalling 20th English top-flight title convinced the club it was time to act like a modern powerhouse.

The reigning Premier League champions continue preparations to defend their title on Saturday (7:30 am ET), when Liverpool take on Serie A giants AC Milan in Hong Kong.

Liverpool are looking to re-ignite interest in Newcastle winger Anthony Gordon if Luis Díaz leaves this summer. Transfer Talk has the latest news, gossip and rumors.

Liverpool are ready to break the British transfer record again for Alexander Isak and Newcastle are lining up Benjamin Sesko as a potential replacement, plus more.

Hogan believes the show of ambition this transfer window underlines the desire of FSG to ensure Liverpool build on last season's title win

Liverpool’s transfer focus right now is ALL on Alexander Isak. For the second time in the one summer, the Reds are preparing to break the British transfer record. Liverpool signed Florian Wirtz

Meanwhile, Newcastle have turned their attention to Slovenia and RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Sesko, 22, as their main target should Isak leave. (ipaper)