Journalist: Expect Luis Diaz to Stay at Liverpool as Transfer Work Intensifies | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Next Step: Why Keeping Luis Díaz Makes Perfect Sense

After Liverpool’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur secured the Premier League title, all eyes have quickly turned to what happens next. With Arne Slot now at the helm, conversations are already swirling around the future of key players — none more so than Luis Díaz, who have been linked with a move away from Anfield this summer.

In a revealing interview with Dave Davis for Anfield Index, respected journalist David Lynch provided critical insight into Díaz’s situation. While speculation around player exits always follows a title win, the case of Díaz is particularly fascinating, as it touches not only on Liverpool’s financial strategy but also the need for squad stability.

Liverpool’s Selling Strategy Isn’t What It Used to Be

Speaking to Anfield Index, David Lynch made a significant point:“I just wonder whether they would prefer to not renew him because I don’t think Liverpool are as reliant on generating sales through first-team players as people think.”

It’s a thought-provoking angle. Under previous regimes, Liverpool’s transfer model heavily depended on selling big to buy big. Think Philippe Coutinho’s move to Barcelona funding a spree that included Virgil van Dijk and Alisson Becker. But today, the club is in a healthier financial position. Winning the league so convincingly underlines that Liverpool’s focus is now on sustained success rather than constant rebuilding.

This shift in strategy arguably gives Liverpool a luxury they haven’t always had — the ability to retain valuable assets like Díaz without feeling pressured into a sale.

Exits Already Looming in the Forward Line

Another point Lynch raised during his conversation with Anfield Index is the imminent departures within Liverpool’s attacking ranks.“I already expect Federico Chiesa to leave and Darwin Nunez is expected to leave too, so that’s already two forwards leaving this summer.”

While Federico Chiesa’s name being linked is certainly intriguing — and would represent a huge loss if finalised — the more significant note for Liverpool fans is Darwin Núñez’s expected departure. Despite flashes of brilliance, Núñez has struggled for consistency, and a fresh start may suit both parties.

Photo: IMAGO

However, Lynch adds a crucial warning:“If you’re already losing those two and you lose a third player that has scored goals this season and has performed well, then that would be a blow.”

Liverpool’s success this season has come from a potent, multi-faceted attack. Losing three forwards could destabilise that, risking the team’s momentum under Arne Slot’s new leadership.

Continuity Could Be Key to Next Season’s Success

In light of these potential exits, Lynch’s advice sounds all the more critical:“The ideal situation for Liverpool would be to keep hold of Diaz for one more season because he’s not earning huge money and if they can get one more year out of him and then make the sale, then that would be ideal.”

The logic here is hard to argue with. The 17-goal forward, still offering quality performances without demanding astronomical wages, can provide that bridge of continuity. His presence would ease the transition for any incoming forward — particularly if Liverpool are investing in a younger or less Premier League-proven attacker.

As Lynch succinctly puts it,“It just gives them that extra continuity in the forward line and keeping Diaz could help the new striker that is expected to come in.”

Photo: IMAGO

Final Thoughts: Pragmatism and Patience

Liverpool’s title-winning season was built not just on moments of brilliance but on shrewd squad management and tactical flexibility. As Arne Slot begins his reign, the importance of maintaining some stability cannot be overstated.

Luis Díaz may not stay forever, and there will inevitably be a time to cash in if the right offer comes. But right now, Liverpool need his flair, his work rate, and his experience as they embark on another title defence. Letting him go this summer would feel like an unnecessary gamble, particularly given the other exits already in motion.

Credit must go to David Lynch and Dave Davis of Anfield Index for shedding real light on this developing story — one that will surely define Liverpool’s early months under Slot.