Liverpool are reportedly interested in signing an ‘incredible’ forward, identified as a possible replacement for Luis Diaz. They may have a significant advantage over Barcelona in the competition for his signature.
Diaz’s Liverpool Future in Doubt
Diaz has been a consistent starter for Liverpool this season, performing impressively with 13 goals in 39 appearances across all competitions. However, his future with the club is uncertain beyond the current season.
The 28-year-old’s contract runs until 2027, and he has attracted interest from Chelsea and Barcelona. Liverpool are expected to demand a fee of at least £67m if they decide to sell him.
Arne Slot’s Liverpool side are considering potential replacements for Diaz. Rafael Leao from AC Milan has emerged as a target and is seen as an ideal successor.
Leao’s versatility, capable of playing on either wing or centrally, makes him an appealing option for Liverpool. He has consistently contributed with goals and assists for Milan this season.
Liverpool believe the Portuguese international would fit well into Slot’s system. However, they anticipate strong competition for his signature, especially from Barcelona.
Liverpool, however, are in a much stronger financial position than Barcelona, which could give them an edge in the transfer pursuit.
‘Incredible’ Leao Could Be Perfect Diaz Replacement
Ideally, Slot would prefer Diaz to remain at Anfield, given his crucial role in their Premier League title challenge and his overall impact since joining from Porto.
| Luis Diaz | Apps (all comps) | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021-22 | 26 | 6 | 5 |
| 2022-23 | 21 | 5 | 3 |
| 2023-24 | 51 | 13 | 5 |
| 2024-25 | 39 | 13 | 4 |
Diaz’s attacking output has improved each year. If he decides to leave this summer, Leao could be an excellent replacement.
Fabrizio Romano has described Leao as ‘incredible’. The Milan star has been a consistent performer in Serie A this season, with six goals and six assists, including four goal contributions in his last five matches.
With Darwin Núñez’s future also uncertain, Slot might want to recruit a forward who can also play as a striker. Leao fits this profile, having scored 23 goals and provided seven assists when playing as a centre-forward.
The main obstacle could be Leao’s high price tag. Reports suggest Milan might demand around £83m, and his value is likely to increase if he maintains his current performance level.
Vihaan Mehrotra