Liverpool are now keen on signing an “incredible” forward, who has been identified as the ideal replacement for Luis Diaz, and they could hold a major advantage over Barcelona in the race for his signature, according to a report.
Diaz has been a regular starter for the Reds this season, and the winger has been impressive in front of goal, scoring 13 goals in 39 games in all competitions. However, his future is in doubt beyond the end of the campaign.
The 28-year-old is out of contract in 2027, and he has now started to attract interest from Chelsea and Barcelona, but the Merseyside club are not willing to let him go on the cheap, and would be looking to receive a fee of at least £67m.
Arne Slot’s side have now started to look at potential replacements for the former FC Porto man, and a report from Spain has revealed AC Milan’s Rafael Leao has emerged as a target, with the winger viewed as the ideal Diaz heir.
Leao’s versatility, in being able to play on both wings and through the middle, makes him an attractive option for the Reds, and he has regularly provided goals and assists for Milan this season.
As such, Liverpool believe the Portugal international could fit perfectly into Slot’s system, but there may be stiff competition for his signature, given that Barcelona are also known to be interested.
However, the Premier League leaders are in a far stronger position than Barca financially, which will give them an advantage in the transfer battle.
Of course, Slot will be hoping Diaz opts to remain at Anfield in the summer, given the major role the forward has played in the Premier League title push, and the impact he’s made ever since arriving from Porto.
The Colombia international’s attacking output indicates he is developing year-on-year, but if he decides to move on this summer, Leao could be an excellent replacement.
Lauded as “incredible” by Fabrizio Romano, the Milan star has been his side’s most consistent performer in the Serie A this term, picking up six goals and six assists, with four goal contributions in his last five games.
With Darwin Núñez’s future in doubt, Slot may also want to bring in a forward capable of playing at striker, and the former Lille man fits the bill in that regard, amassing 23 goals and seven assists when fielded at centre-forward.
The only potential stumbling block could be the huge price tag, with recent reports revealing Milan could look to hold out for £83m, and his stock will only continue to rise if his performances stay at their current level.
