While it would be surprising for Luis Diaz to depart, Liverpool have potential summer alternatives should the Colombian choose to move on.
Liverpool supporters may approach the summer transfer window with a mix of nerves and curiosity, as they adapt to a new, untested manager leading the team.
Arne Slot appears to be the chosen successor to Jurgen Klopp, tasked with making an immediate impact. It’s reported that he’ll take on the role of ‘head coach’ rather than ‘manager,’ with a focus on team management.
While he’ll contribute to transfer strategies, incoming sporting director Richard Hughes is expected to take the lead in recruitment efforts. Rumours suggests Luis Diaz may depart if he doesn’t renew his contract soon.
The Colombian’s contract still has three years remaining, making a departure unlikely. However, according to The Athletic, Liverpool are considering adding a wide player despite speculation, as Mohamed Salah is expected to remain at Anfield for at least another year.
If Diaz does end up leaving, Newsnow Liverpool takes a look at replacement options the Reds could target in the summer.
Mohammed Kudus
Despite only joining West Ham last summer, Kudus has quickly established himself as one of the team’s standout performers. Slot, familiar with him from their encounters during his time at Feyenoord while Kudus was at Ajax, will recognize his talent.
With David Moyes potentially departing West Ham this summer, there’s a chance for a Kudus transfer. Although he prefers the right wing, he’s demonstrated versatility by scoring three goals in eight appearances on the left this season.
Kudus also offers the flexibility to play centrally, which would be advantageous for the pragmatic Slot. However, his price tag may be a concern, given his contract runs until 2028 with the option for an additional year. Nonetheless, at 23 years old, he represents a promising investment for the future.
Leroy Sane
Possibly ambitious, yet feasible. Sane’s recent goal against Real Madrid marked his first in any competition since October, and with only a year remaining on his Bayern Munich contract, he’s ripe for the taking.
With Bayern undergoing managerial changes and uncertainty looming, Liverpool see an opportunity. However, similar uncertainties surrounding Slot’s tenure at Liverpool may give Sane pause.
Versatile and cost-effective, Sane, at 28, offers prowess on either wing. Yet, the likes of Manchester City or Paris Saint-Germain could present stiff competition for Liverpool’s pursuit.
Nico Williams
A rising star like Athletic Bilbao’s Williams is drawing attention from clubs beyond just Liverpool. Despite his modest goal tally of seven in 33 matches, his 14 assists and dynamic attacking style paint a more complete picture.
His prowess as a left winger could seamlessly fill the void left by Diaz. With three years remaining on his contract, Athletic, known for their strict policy of fielding Basque-born or trained players, would likely demand a substantial fee, potentially in the range of £40m-£50m, considering his promising future.
Michael Olise
Several clubs are poised to pursue Crystal Palace standout Olise, potentially for a hefty fee nearing £60 million. Olise, 22, originally acquired for £8 million in 2021, predominantly operates as a right winger, with limited appearances on the left flank.
Given Liverpool’s other priorities, they might hesitate to invest significantly in a player like Olise, who would contend with Salah, unless Klopp intends to mold him into a left-sided player. Any pursuit of Olise by Liverpool would likely be with the intention of grooming him as Salah’s eventual successor.
Pedro Neto
Neto, primarily deployed on the right flank but adaptable to the left, merits consideration, contingent upon an appropriate price point. His recurring injuries, sidelining him for 15 league matches this season due to hamstring troubles, pose significant apprehensions.
Compounded by Wolves’ financial constraints, the 24-year-old might become attainable at a lower valuation than originally anticipated, given his promise. Any offer exceeding £45m should be disregarded.
In other Liverpool news,
“Has to Leave”: Dutch Pundit Tells Arne Slot to Get Rid of Two Stars After He Joins Liverpool