Report: Liverpool Set Sights On €100m Luis Diaz Replacement | OneFootball

Liverpool Weigh Up Move for Rafael Leao as AC Milan Set Enticing Price

Liverpool are once again in the headlines for a potential high-profile transfer, with AC Milan’s Rafael Leao emerging as a serious target. According to TeamTalk, “Liverpool are considering an approach for AC Milan’s Rafael Leao, after AC Milan set an enticing price tag for him amid Barcelona interest.” With Milan looking to generate funds this summer, the opportunity to sign the Portuguese winger at a reduced price has certainly caught the Reds’ attention.

AC Milan Ready to Cash In on Leao

Leao has long been considered one of Serie A’s brightest attacking talents, and his performances for Milan have made him a sought-after player across Europe. Milan’s financial situation means they may need to part ways with some of their key stars, as TeamTalk reports: “The Rossoneri – despite a clause of €175m that will be activated in the summer – have set an asking price of €100m to evaluate the farewell of Leao.”

Milan’s strategy is clear. With their Champions League hopes fading, they are looking to generate funds by selling valuable assets. Theo Hernandez is already expected to depart, and now Leao could follow. This opens the door for clubs like Liverpool and Barcelona to make their moves.

Liverpool’s Interest Hinges on Luis Diaz’s Future

Liverpool’s pursuit of Leao is directly linked to the future of Luis Diaz. TeamTalk confirms that “Liverpool are one of the clubs who have taken notice of the star attacker, with a move for him under consideration if Luis Diaz is to leave.”

Diaz has been a key player for Liverpool, but with continued interest from Spain, his departure is not off the table. If he were to move on, Leao would be a natural replacement, offering pace, flair, and a goal-scoring threat from the left flank. The 24-year-old Portuguese international has been a key figure for Milan, and Liverpool’s recruitment team will no doubt see him as a perfect fit for their attacking system.

Barcelona’s Financial Struggles Give Liverpool an Advantage

Barcelona have also been strongly linked with Leao, but their ongoing financial struggles could hinder their ability to get a deal done. As TeamTalk reports: “Barcelona, as mentioned, will try in the summer for Leao and have already warned the Rossoneri of this option. Of course, the Blaugrana will have to deal with financial restrictions first.”

While Barcelona would love to add Leao to their squad, they will need to balance their books first. This gives Liverpool an advantage in the race, as they are in a stronger financial position to negotiate a deal. However, if Diaz stays, it remains to be seen whether Liverpool will press ahead with an offer.

Transfer Moves Expected Soon

With Milan actively looking to offload key players, the coming weeks could be crucial in determining Leao’s future. TeamTalk suggests that “with Milan’s openness to the transfer and the demands much lower than the release clause, many Premier League teams, specifically Liverpool, may start to make concrete moves in the coming weeks.”

This means Liverpool’s decision-making process is now at a critical point. If Diaz leaves, Leao could be a marquee addition to Arne Slot’s squad. However, if Diaz remains, the club may opt to strengthen other areas instead.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Any move for Leao would be an exciting one. He has the speed, technical ability, and goal-scoring prowess that could make him a star in the Premier League. His ability to play across the front three would also provide tactical flexibility, something that could be highly valuable under Arne Slot.

However, the key question remains: Is Leao a priority? Liverpool have other areas that need reinforcement, particularly in midfield and defence. Spending €100m on a winger when there is no certainty over Diaz’s departure might not be the most logical move. There’s also the matter of Leao’s consistency—he’s undoubtedly talented, but does he deliver at an elite level week in, week out?

Furthermore, with Barcelona’s financial struggles, Liverpool may find themselves in a strong position to negotiate a lower fee if Milan get desperate. If the Reds can secure Leao for a price closer to €80m, then it would represent a much smarter piece of business.

In the end, Liverpool’s decision will come down to Diaz’s future. If he stays, this move seems unlikely. If he leaves, then Leao could well be on his way to Anfield. One thing is for certain—this is a story to keep a close eye on as the transfer window approaches.