Sky Sports Reporter Provides Update on Liverpool’s Interest in £84m Real Madrid Star | OneFootball

Liverpool Face Stiff Competition in Pursuit of Rodrygo: PSG Circle as Madrid Weigh Future

Liverpool’s recruitment strategy under Arne Slot is showing no signs of slowing down, and the latest name linked with a move to Anfield is that of Rodrygo Goes. According to a report by respected journalist Florian Plettenberg, both Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain are “closely monitoring Rodrygo’s situation,” with the Brazilian attacker’s future at Real Madrid looking increasingly uncertain.

Rodrygo, now 24, may be entering the most pivotal stage of his career. Despite racking up 270 appearances and contributing to a highly successful era at Madrid, including three La Liga titles and two Champions League triumphs, his output dipped drastically last season. The Brazilian ended the 2024–25 campaign without a single goal in 25 appearances, an alarming stat for a player of his calibre.

Interest Grows as Díaz’s Future Casts Doubt

Liverpool’s interest appears to be tied to the growing uncertainty around Luis Díaz. The Colombian international could be set for a move away from Anfield, prompting the Reds to plan proactively. As Slot looks to build on a title-winning debut campaign, reinforcements on the wings may become a necessity.

Rodrygo’s situation is not straightforward. His contract at Madrid runs until June 2028, and he is protected by a €1 billion release clause — a symbolic figure designed more for leverage than genuine enforceability. Any real negotiations would need to be grounded in realism, with Fabrizio Romano reporting that talks would likely start at around €100 million.

Photo: IMAGO

PSG Add Complexity to Liverpool’s Ambitions

Florian Plettenberg’s report adds another layer to this story with PSG now in the race for the Brazilian.

“Understand that not only Liverpool but also Paris Saint-Germain are closely monitoring Rodrygo’s situation,” Plettenberg wrote on X. “PSG have expressed their interest and continue to look out for a new young top winger, as revealed. Their approach will depend on market opportunities.”

It is understood that PSG’s move will depend on whether other targets become available, but their interest certainly throws a spanner in Liverpool’s plans.

Madrid’s Mixed Messages and Player’s Status

While Rodrygo remains under contract, his current standing within the Real Madrid squad is under scrutiny. He was largely overlooked by manager Xabi Alonso during the Club World Cup campaign, starting just once in the tournament. That omission may suggest a shift in how he is valued internally, with new signings such as Endrick and the ever-growing influence of Jude Bellingham affecting his game time.

Still, Madrid’s public stance will likely remain firm. Rodrygo has been an integral part of the squad for half a decade, and letting go of such an experienced player, particularly one still entering his prime, would not come lightly.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Tthis one feels like a tantalising but tricky deal. Rodrygo fits the profile Arne Slot tends to favour — versatile, technically sharp, tactically intelligent and with top-level experience. But €100 million is no small fee, especially for a player who went goalless last season. That’s a red flag, even if it can be partly explained by tactical changes and internal rotation at Madrid.

The competition from PSG is worrying. Their financial might, coupled with the promise of being a headline player in Paris, could be a decisive factor. At Liverpool, he may need to compete with Mohamed Salah and others, depending on Díaz’s departure.

However, if Slot and the recruitment team believe Rodrygo is the right player to refresh the front line, especially with Salah not getting any younger, this could be a rare opportunity. The key will be Rodrygo’s own ambition. Does he want to be a star elsewhere or stay in the shadows at Madrid?

Either way, this story is worth watching closely. And if Liverpool do pull it off, it could signal another bold chapter in Slot’s new era.