‘No Talks’ – James Pearce Rules Out £84million Liverpool Signing | OneFootball

Rodrygo to Liverpool Ruled Out Amid Diaz Uncertainty

Liverpool’s summer transfer narrative took another twist this week, as James Pearce of The Athletic delivered a clear update that cuts through the speculation. Despite swirling reports in Spain and Germany linking Real Madrid’s Rodrygo to Anfield, Liverpool are not currently planning a move for the Brazilian forward.

In the same breath, the ongoing situation surrounding Luis Diaz’s potential exit to Bayern Munich remains fluid, with no fresh bid received yet from the Bundesliga champions. Diaz continues to train as normal on Liverpool’s pre-season tour in Hong Kong.

Pearce Sets the Record Straight

Pearce’s update came via X on July 23 at 5:09pm, stating:

“Liverpool yet to receive an improved bid from Bayern Munich for Luis Diaz. Player has trained normally so far this week in Hong Kong. Real Madrid’s Rodrygo currently not viewed as a possible replacement if Diaz does go. No talks. #LFC”

This brief but significant message pours cold water on the mounting rumours that had surfaced over the past week, particularly from Spanish and German sources suggesting Liverpool were deep in talks for Rodrygo as a contingency for a possible Diaz departure.

Diaz’s Bayern Move Gathering Pace

The strongest push for Diaz is coming from Bayern Munich, who have already had two bids rejected — the most recent totalling €67.5 million (£58.5 million). Christian Falk of Bild has indicated that Bayern remain convinced they will get their man.

“Bayern Munich are increasingly certain that they will sign Luis Diaz in the end,” Falk told CaughtOffside.“Now, it’s just a question of money between the Bundesliga champions and Liverpool… They’re determined to find a solution.”

With personal terms reportedly agreed — and the promise of a four-year deal worth €14 million per season gross — the Colombian winger is being tempted by both financial gain and a feeling of greater “appreciation” in Bavaria. Falk notes that Diaz’s current net salary at Liverpool is significantly lower, at €2.7 million annually.

Rodrygo’s Unlikely Price Tag

While Madrid appear open to selling Rodrygo, the price tag alone makes Liverpool’s lack of interest understandable. TEAMtalk reported on July 20 that Madrid would demand over €90 million (£78 million), plus add-ons.

Though versatile and still only 24, Rodrygo’s preference to play on the left — where Diaz operates — further complicates the fit. Liverpool’s recruitment model has long leaned on value, data analysis and tactical suitability rather than marquee names or short-term solutions.

Photo: IMAGO

According to TEAMtalk’s Fraser Fletcher, the club is also monitoring other targets — defenders included — as part of a broader squad evolution under Arne Slot.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

It’s no surprise that Liverpool are distancing themselves from a Rodrygo deal, and not just due to the £78 million price. Under Slot, who delivered the Premier League title in his first season, the transfer strategy appears to remain as methodical as it was under Klopp. Rodrygo may be technically gifted, but at that price and profile, the move feels misaligned with the current project.

Diaz’s situation is more nuanced. His output in 2024–25 was solid but not spectacular, and at 28, this might be Liverpool’s last chance to sell him for premium value. If he’s pushing for an exit, and the salary jump on offer is real, it may be time to let him go — but only on Liverpool’s terms. Fans may admire Diaz’s flair and commitment, but the club hierarchy will think in cycles, not sentiment.

The absence of a Rodrygo pursuit doesn’t mean Liverpool won’t act — it just suggests a better plan is in place. It would be logical to expect a more under-the-radar signing in the £40–£55 million range, someone younger, hungrier and more suited to Slot’s aggressive, dynamic football.

Until Bayern meet the valuation, Diaz stays. Until a value-aligned opportunity presents itself, Liverpool wait. And that, in truth, is exactly how it should be.