Paul Joyce: Liverpool explored Alvarez swap in Diaz–Man City talks | OneFootball

Liverpool Considered Julian Alvarez in Swap Proposal

Liverpool reportedly explored the possibility of bringing Julian Alvarez to Anfield last summer when Luis Diaz was unsettled by interest from Manchester City. According to The Times, Liverpool’s recruitment team, including Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes, “countered by expressing a liking for” Alvarez and even proposed an exchange deal.

Diaz Situation at Anfield

It was understood that Diaz “realised” he wanted to make the switch to City shortly after Arne Slot’s arrival. However, City were unwilling to sell Alvarez to a direct Premier League rival and rejected the idea outright. Liverpool then mirrored City’s stance and Diaz was kept at the club.

Photo: IMAGO

Remarkably, Diaz responded with his best season in a Liverpool shirt, scoring 17 goals before completing a £65 million transfer to Bayern Munich this summer.

Alvarez Path Takes Different Turn

Instead of a move to Anfield, Alvarez would eventually leave City for Atletico Madrid in an £81.5 million deal. His agent Fernando Hidalgo later confirmed Liverpool’s interest, while Atletico boss Diego Simeone admitted the Merseyside club were among those who “want him”.

Photo IMAGO

Liverpool’s Attack Rebuilt

Liverpool eventually invested in Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz as part of their attacking overhaul. The Argentine would have fit nicely under Slot’s system, but the decision was taken to prioritise other targets.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Alvarez would have been a dream signing for many supporters, combining relentless pressing with a clinical edge. The thought of him in red, spearheading Slot’s high-energy attack, is tantalising.

The frustration lies in timing. Liverpool clearly identified the opportunity when Diaz was unsettled, but with City unwilling to engage in negotiations, there was little more the club could do. The fact Diaz stayed and delivered 17 goals makes this less of a sore point, yet some fans will wonder what could have been if the club had pushed harder for Alvarez before Atletico acted.

With Isak, Wirtz and Ekitike now leading Liverpool’s new-look frontline, the focus is on the future. Supporters will be eager to see whether this attacking trio can match or even surpass what Alvarez might have brought. Still, the Argentine’s form in Spain will no doubt be watched closely from Merseyside.