Liverpool step up transfer plans after tour setback and forward sale | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Transfer Week Explodes: Isak, Fofana, Diaz, Chiesa, Elliott, Gomez & Guehi in Focus

As the new season approaches, Liverpool’s activity in the market continues at pace. On the latest Newsround Podcast from Anfield Index, Dave Davis dissected a whirlwind week for the Reds with trademark candour. Transfers are being finalised, injuries are creating urgency, and the club’s strategy under Richard Hughes and Arne Slot is coming into sharp focus.

Diaz exit signals start of summer reshuffle

Luis Diaz’s move to Bayern Munich has finally been agreed. “Bayern Munich reached total agreement with Liverpool to sign Luis Diaz,” said Davis, quoting David Ornstein. The €75 million deal, which includes €5 million in achievable add-ons, marks a clear shift in Liverpool’s forward planning. “28 years old, two years left, wanted to leave… looking at the market right now I don’t think 65.5 million is that bad at all.”

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Slot had previously attempted to keep Diaz at Anfield. “They did at one time try and do a renewal,” Davis revealed, but it had long been clear the Colombian wanted a new challenge.

Isak push now front and centre

With Diaz gone, attention has turned to Alexander Isak. According to Davis, Liverpool are “prepared to go big” and have been emboldened by the striker’s clear preference. “No to Saudi, 600 grand a week was the latest suggestion I think I saw yesterday… Alexander Isak, an absolute no to that.” Davis also confirmed, “He’s done his bit… told Eddie Howe I’m not playing against Celtic… not going on this tour of Singapore.”

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While Newcastle delay, the anticipation builds. “There is already the strong outline of a deal between the two,” Davis said. “This is set to be the second biggest transfer of the summer so far… Touch wood if he does end up at Anfield.”

Fofana waiting in the wings

Malick Fofana remains on the radar, though there are complications. “Fofana and his camp are waiting for… a Champions League club to make their move.” Davis noted that Liverpool’s left-side options, Gakpo, Ekitike, Wirtz, and Rio Ngumoha, may give the club pause. “It does just make you wonder a little bit about Fofana.”

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Still, Davis reiterated, “I do actually think that Malick Fofana is one they’d like to bring in,” but acknowledged the need not to block the progress of young talent like Ngumoha.

Chiesa future looks decided

Federico Chiesa’s departure is imminent, with Davis confirming, “He’s not in that 29-man squad to the Far East… plan remains to leave Liverpool as he wants to play more.” A permanent exit looks likely, though many clubs prefer a loan move. “There’s a lot of loan with option offers, which is not really what Liverpool want.”

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Elliott price becomes clearer

The departure of Morgan Gibbs-White from Tottenham’s plans has brought Harvey Elliott into focus. “You’d actually think… around the £50 million mark will get it done,” Davis said. “On the surface when you say Spurs that feels like a brilliant attack… but is Harvey Elliott a Thomas Frank player?”

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Gomez injury increases Guehi urgency

Joe Gomez’s injury, which saw him leave the tour, has created immediate concerns. “It’s a frustrating setback for the club’s longest serving player,” Davis said, noting that only Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate are currently available.

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That has refocused attention on Marc Guehi. “We know about the Marc Guehi situation… Palace now accepting the need to sell, but it’s a price and negotiation.” With the clock ticking, Davis insisted: “We need to get at least one… through the door as soon as possible.”

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