You might as well buy, right? - Former Liverpool star justifies huge summer spending amid Isak saga

Liverpool's significant summer spending has sparked debate across Europe, but former Reds star Boudewijn Zenden believes it's a logical step as the club aims to build on last season's success under Arne Slot.

Speaking to Sportnieuws.nl, Zenden argued that the financial outlay, reportedly around €300 million, is simply Liverpool's way of staying consistent with its ambitions.

"They often say: never change a winning team, right? Slot will want to perfect the successful playing style even further. It will take some time at the beginning, but I expect Liverpool to be title contenders," Zenden explained.

A major talking point of the transfer window has been Liverpool's interest in Alexander Isak, with reports suggesting the Newcastle striker could move to Anfield for a fee exceeding €150 million.

For Zenden, the Swedish forward would be a perfect fit. "Isak has already proven himself in the Premier League. He can score at the highest level," he stated.

"With the way Liverpool play, you need someone up front to finish off the chances, and Isak provides that. Logically, he should adapt more quickly than someone who hasn't yet proven themselves in the English league," he added.

While big-money signings can strengthen a squad, they also add pressure on the manager. Slot exceeded expectations in his first season after arriving from Feyenoord, winning over doubters within a few months.

Zenden believes Slot has proven he can handle the pressure and that the spending was inevitable after last year's achievements. "Last year, expectations were low because Slot wasn't a big name yet. Now, after such a strong season, the bar is higher. Whether you buy players or not, the expectations will be there—so you might as well buy, right?" Zenden said with a smile.

Liverpool have made a strong start to the new Premier League season, securing six points from their first two games, although the performances haven't been entirely convincing.

For Zenden, however, the signs are encouraging, "When you see what they can already produce, especially the willingness to fight until the last second, that's very good. That's the mark of a champion, and it can only get better," he concluded.

Liverpool's potential will be tested today when they face Arsenal in a clash that is already shaping up to be a key fixture in the title race.