How Liverpool Should Replace Luis Diaz after £65m Bayern Munich Move – Opinion | OneFootball

Luis Diaz’s Bayern Munich Move: A Sensible Farewell for Liverpool

Luis Diaz’s £65 million transfer to Bayern Munich has left Liverpool fans with mixed emotions. The Colombian winger has been a success at Anfield, contributing to a Premier League title, two Carabao Cups and an FA Cup during his three and a half seasons on Merseyside. His fearless style and dazzling flair made him a rare and special player in today’s game. On his day, Diaz was pure box office, capable of lighting up any match with his unpredictable brilliance.

But from a club perspective, the timing and value of the deal make sense. At 28, and with two years left on his contract, Diaz’s peak value was likely now. Given his inconsistencies and injury issues, £65 million is a strong return. It is a move that suits all parties, even if it means losing one of the most entertaining players in recent memory.

No Clear Replacement Yet

Replacing Diaz may not happen immediately. Liverpool are currently focused on signing Alexander Isak from Newcastle in what would be a record-breaking deal. While wide players like Rodrygo and Malick Fofana have been linked, both moves present financial or developmental risks. Anthony Gordon’s name also remains in the frame, but no serious progress has been made.

Options Within the Squad

Cody Gakpo had a better season than Diaz last year and could step into a bigger role. Youngster Rio Ngumoha, just 16, has been heavily involved in pre-season and is clearly part of the club’s future. Arne Slot may also view Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike and Dominik Szoboszlai as options to fill the left-sided role depending on system changes.

Tactical Evolution Under Slot

With the arrivals of flying full-backs Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez, Slot could shift the system entirely. Wide players might operate more centrally, supporting a strike duo of Salah and Isak or Ekitike. This approach would allow Szoboszlai and Wirtz to play in ‘double ten’ roles, with Mac Allister and Gravenberch anchoring midfield.

Diaz’s departure marks the end of a thrilling chapter, but Liverpool appear well placed to evolve. The club is planning ahead, and the next step of Slot’s project is already taking shape.

This is an abridged version; the full article is available on our ‘It Was Always… Liverpool’ Substack page: