Liverpool Leading Arsenal in the Race to Sign £85m Forward – Report | OneFootball

Liverpool Close in on €100m Rodrygo Deal: What It Means for the Reds

Liverpool are making headlines again, this time by overtaking Arsenal in the pursuit of Real Madrid forward Rodrygo, as reported by AS. The Reds, now front-runners in the race, are pushing hard to secure the Brazilian international as a potential replacement for Luis Diaz, who has expressed a desire to leave Anfield this summer.

Luis Diaz’s Exit Sparks Transfer Chase

Luis Diaz was never seen as an “untouchable” at Anfield, but few thought a summer exit would materialise. Barcelona and Bayern Munich have both tried to prise the Colombian away, yet neither came close to Liverpool’s valuation. According to the AS report, Diaz has now “made it clear to Liverpool that he wants out” which has forced the club to act decisively.

Liverpool’s rejection of all previous offers “without a counter-offer” suggests they were only ever willing to part ways for a substantial fee. That fee, it seems, would be used to finance a blockbuster signing — and Rodrygo is firmly in their sights.

Rodrygo Emerges as Top Target

Rodrygo, 24, has long been admired across Europe, and Liverpool’s interest is hardly surprising. AS claims that the Reds see Rodrygo as the ideal player to fill the void left by Diaz, should the Colombian’s departure be finalised. Real Madrid are reportedly demanding €100m, but Liverpool’s board appear ready to negotiate.

Photo: IMAGO

Crucially, Arsenal — once favourites for Rodrygo — are now “more distant” in the race. This shift puts Liverpool in pole position, marking a significant moment in the summer transfer window.

Financial Puzzle Needs Solving

The path to Rodrygo is not straightforward. As the article notes, “Liverpool won’t sign Rodrygo unless Diaz leaves,” and the money raised from Diaz’s transfer is key to funding the deal. So far, no club has come close to matching Liverpool’s asking price, meaning this saga could stretch deeper into the window.

Nevertheless, Liverpool’s proactive stance, flying in for talks with Real Madrid, indicates a clear intent to strengthen. With Arne Slot at the helm, fresh from delivering a Premier League title in his debut season, the ambition at Anfield is palpable.

What Next for Liverpool?

While nothing is guaranteed, Liverpool fans will be excited by the prospect of adding a player like Rodrygo, whose pace, flair and versatility could elevate the Reds’ already formidable attack. The club are positioning themselves smartly, ensuring they are ready to act if the Diaz deal materialises.

In the words of the AS report: “Let’s see what happens with Diaz because if he does get his move, the Reds are positioned for a very exciting replacement.”

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

As Liverpool supporters, we can barely contain our excitement at the thought of Rodrygo pulling on the famous red shirt. This is not just a signing, it is a statement. Under Arne Slot, we have already seen a transformation, lifting the Premier League in his first season, and now the club are going toe-to-toe with European giants in the transfer market.

Rodrygo would bring something special to Anfield: raw pace, creativity, and a knack for decisive goals. Imagine him lining up alongside Mo Salah, Darwin Núñez and Diogo Jota. The thought alone sends a shiver down the spine.

Luis Diaz has been a brilliant servant, but if his heart is set on a move, then fair play. What matters is how Liverpool respond, and targeting someone of Rodrygo’s calibre shows we are aiming higher, not settling.

Fans will be keeping a close eye on developments, but one thing is clear: Liverpool mean business. With the right moves this summer, we are not just defending the title, we are building a team ready to conquer Europe again.