The Colombian is anticipated to depart Anfield this summer, as the European powerhouses are interested in Ben McAleer, the Premier League winner.
McAleer, Ben
Despite Luis Diaz’s pivotal part in the Premier League title victory last season, Liverpool is predicted to cash in on him this summer.
Despite having a contract with the team through 2027, the 28-year-old appears to be planning to leave Merseyside.
Although Marcus Rashford is also a target, Barcelona has been strongly linked to a deal for Diaz and may make another attempt for the Colombian international after missing out on Nico Williams. In the meanwhile, Bayern needs striking reinforcements after Jamal Musiala suffered a catastrophic injury during the Club World Cup and Leroy Sane left.
According to the German newspaper BILD, Bayern has made a bid of £44.8 million for Diaz, which is reportedly less than what Liverpool is asking for the former Porto player. According to reports, there is a “gentleman’s agreement” between the player and the club that he can depart if the club receives an offer of £69.1 million.
Nevertheless, there is still time for interested parties to negotiate a deal with Liverpool for Diaz, who finished the previous season with 13 goals and five assists, as the transfer window is open until early September. Therefore, the focus shifts to the person who could, in all likelihood, take Diaz’s place at Anfield.
Gordon, Anthony
Last summer, Liverpool was strongly linked to a move for Anthony Gordon. The England international was crucial to the Magpies’ domestic success and Champions League win last season after leaving rivals Everton for Newcastle in 2023. It’s simple to understand why Gordon has suitors at Anfield.
Having averaged a respectable 1.4 dribbles per 90 last season, the 24-year-old has a strong work ethic that will appeal to the higher-ups. He also has the ability to put defenses on the defensive like Diaz. Newcastle may try to cash in on Gordon, who was reputedly “very keen” on returning to Merseyside last year, given they are close to signing Nottingham Forest’s Anthony Elanga and have been strongly linked to a deal for Jack Grealish.
But to persuade Newcastle to sell Gordon, a sizable offer would be required. The Magpies reportedly value Gordon at £100 million, although the winger only inked a new long-term contract last year. Nevertheless, considering his playing style and native status, Liverpool’s interest is justified.
Rodrygo
Rodrygo is anticipated to leave Real Madrid this summer after being judged surplus to requirements by manager Xabi Alonso. With Liverpool reportedly showing interest in the Brazilian and Arsenal reportedly closing on the signing of Noni Madueke, a Premier League transfer has been suggested.
Most importantly, Rodrygo’s versatility will be appreciated at Anfield. In addition to playing from the left side the previous season, Diaz occasionally led the line, which would fit Rodrygo’s approach. The Brazil international prefers to use his right foot, which would work well for Liverpool under Arne Slot, even though he is thought of as a right winger who can play up front.
To enable the attacking full-backs to stretch defenses, the Dutch manager wants his wingers to cut infield from their respective wings. Slot will look to his wingers to come inside to provide space for the buccaneering duo to overlap now that Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong have joined from Bournemouth and Bayer Leverkusen, respectively. Rodrygo, who is anticipated to leave the Bernabeu, may be a wise addition if the Reds can persuade the forward to forego the Emirates for Anfield.
Fofana Malick
Lyon won’t be easily dismantled this summer because they were spared relegation to Ligue 2, but Malick Fofana is naturally in high demand. Despite having trouble securing a starting position at Parc OL, the Belgian, who made 16 appearances in Ligue 1 last season, contributed a meager five goals and four assists.
Last season, Fofana averaged 1.4 dribbles per 90, which showed that he was able to get past his marker rather frequently. He also produced a respectable final product, managing 1.4 critical passes per 90 in France’s top division. The 20-year-old also averaged 1.2 tackles per 90, which is important. For the benefit of the team, he is willing to put in a lot of effort off the ball.
However, there will be plenty of parties willing to take advantage of Lyon’s financial troubles, so Fofana won’t be short of suitors. According to a report from the Independent earlier this month, Lyon is requesting £51.5 million for the winger, but given the club’s need to sell, that amount might be lowered. Arsenal, Chelsea, and Bayern are also reportedly keeping an eye on Fofana.
Yildiz Kenan
Juventus had a difficult season. Even though they qualified for the Champions League by finishing fourth, Thiago Motta had a difficult time in the Old Lady hot seat. With a strong season finale, Igor Tudor proved he was deserving of the position, although supporters anticipate Juventus to contend for major championships rather than a top-four finish.
Despite the Old Lady’s difficulties, Kenan Yildiz was a bright spot during a poor season, and his stock has skyrocketed. Last season, the Turkish youth led Juventus with seven goals and four assists, but what truly stood out was his ability to defeat a man. Yildiz’s unpredictable style is enticing, since only Nico Paz (69) in Italy’s top division last season completed more dribbles than Yildiz (59).
Although Federico Chiesa had a difficult first season at Anfield, Liverpool might be hesitant to sign another forward from Juventus, but Yildiz is regarded as one of Italy’s top prospects. Juventus’ alleged £84 million asking price for the adaptable attacker is evidence of their confidence in the 20-year-old.
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