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Tag: Luis Diaz

Liverpool’s response to Luis Diaz after he expressed a strong desire to join Barcelona

Liverpool are performing well on the pitch, but Arne Slot still faces some challenges regarding the future of several key players.

Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, and Mohamed Salah are all set to become free agents next year, with ongoing discussions between the club and these players about contract extensions.

In addition to them, Luis Diaz’s future has been called into question recently, especially after rumors linked him to a potential move to Barcelona this summer.

It seems the situation is developing, with the Colombian reportedly keen on joining the Catalan club.

Luis Diaz wants to leave Liverpool for Barcelona

Earlier in the season, Diaz was rumored to be moving to Barcelona, though the transfer never materialized as he opted to stay at Liverpool.

That decision appears to have worked out well for him, as he has seamlessly adapted to Slot’s playing style, becoming an important figure under the Dutch manager.

Liverpool are eager to offer Diaz a new contract, but the 27-year-old seems to have other plans.

According to Caught Offside, both Barcelona and PSG are competing for his signature, with the Colombian reportedly displaying a “clear willingness” to join the Spanish club.

However, Liverpool have made it clear that Diaz is not for sale and have directly informed him that a transfer will not be facilitated.

The report also notes that Slot is pleased with Diaz’s performances early in the season, indicating he wants to keep him at the club.

Neither Barcelona nor PSG have made an offer yet, but PSG is reportedly ready to offer £51m plus a player in exchange—a deal that Liverpool currently has no interest in pursuing.

Diaz’s stats this season

Alan Shearer praised Diaz’s exceptional performance in Liverpool’s 6-3 victory over Tottenham, where he played as a center-forward and scored twice.

While he has primarily played on the left flank alongside Cody Gakpo, the Colombian has also impressed as a central striker, notably scoring a hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen earlier in the season.

Diaz is clearly valued by Slot, and with a contract running until 2027, Liverpool are in a strong position regarding his future and are in no rush to make a decision.

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Liverpool’s Ideal Line-Up Following January Transfer Window and £40m Signing

Liverpool Transfer News: January Window Could See Strengthening of Squad

From an outsider’s perspective, it may seem that Liverpool’s squad doesn’t require any reinforcements based on their performance so far this season. The Reds are currently four points clear at the top of the Premier League, with a game in hand, and also lead the Champions League group stages.

However, with the January transfer window approaching, speculation is starting to build about possible signings. Liverpool have not hesitated to invest in the market during previous January windows when needed.

Several players have already been linked with moves to Anfield, and one area that has been identified as in need of bolstering is left-back. One player who has emerged as a potential target is Milos Kerkez. The Hungary international has been a standout performer for Bournemouth this season, contributing significantly to their rise to fifth place in the Premier League. Kerkez is reportedly valued at around £40 million, though his importance to Bournemouth could see that price rise.

If Liverpool were to pursue Kerkez, he would compete for the left-back spot with Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas. Reds’ manager Arne Slot has frequently rotated between Robertson and Tsimikas this season, but multiple reports suggest that signing a new left-back remains a priority in the coming weeks.

Another player still on Liverpool’s radar is Martin Zubimendi, following the failed attempt to sign the Real Sociedad midfielder last summer. While it remains unclear whether Zubimendi is still a primary target, more clarity is expected as the January window nears.

The forward positions have also seen Liverpool linked with a number of names, including Omar Marmoush, Joao Pedro, and Viktor Gyokeres. Given the strength of Liverpool’s current attacking options, these rumours could be speculative at this point.

Liverpool’s potential strongest lineup after the January transfer window could look like this:
Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Gakpo; Diaz.

December 28, 2024
Liverpool’s transfer setback has provided Arne Slot with an unexpected £75m advantage.

Luis Diaz was rumored to be heading for a Liverpool exit last summer, but the past year has demonstrated why Arne Slot is pleased that didn’t happen.

Luis Diaz might have had other priorities than football last Christmas. After months of turmoil, including the kidnapping of his parents in Colombia and his father’s week-long captivity, spending time with family was undoubtedly his main focus.

However, the holiday season marked a turning point in Diaz’s career at Anfield. As he prepares to celebrate another Christmas, his two goals in Liverpool’s thrilling 6-3 Premier League win at Tottenham Hotspur last Sunday are a reminder of his significant contributions over the past 12 months.

By the time of the Boxing Day trip to Burnley last year, Diaz had scored four goals but hadn’t provided a Premier League assist since the 3-2 defeat at Arsenal in October 2022, when he suffered a knee injury that sidelined him for six months.

That assist drought ended when he set up Diogo Jota for a goal at Turf Moor in a 2-0 victory, sparking a rise in form as Diaz took on more responsibility in the attack, especially after Mohamed Salah’s injury absence during the second half of the season.

Diaz became known for delivering in big matches, scoring against Chelsea and Manchester United in the Premier League, against Arsenal in the FA Cup, and netting a goal at Fulham in the League Cup semi-final second leg, which secured Liverpool’s spot at Wembley.

In the final against Chelsea, Diaz played the full 120 minutes, helping an injury-depleted Liverpool side win the last trophy of Jurgen Klopp’s era.

However, the arrival of a new Liverpool manager, Arne Slot, revived rumors that Diaz might leave in the summer, with Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, and Paris Saint-Germain reportedly showing interest. When Liverpool moved to sign Anthony Gordon from Newcastle, it seemed Diaz’s time at Anfield was coming to an end.

Yet, that didn’t happen. Newcastle abandoned their deal for Gordon, Barcelona faced financial difficulties, and neither Atletico nor PSG were willing to meet Diaz’s £75 million asking price. After playing for Colombia in the Copa America final, where they lost to Argentina, Diaz returned to the AXA Training Centre determined to prove his worth to Slot.

Two goals in a pre-season friendly against Sevilla at Anfield helped Diaz secure a spot in the starting lineup for the new season, as Slot made it clear that Diaz would be in competition with Cody Gakpo for the left-wing position.

With five goals and an assist in the first five Premier League games, including a memorable brace in the 3-0 victory at Manchester United in early September, Diaz was firmly in possession of his role.

Slot later embraced Diaz’s versatility across the front line, which has paid off. Diaz scored as a right-winger in the 3-2 League Cup win at Brighton and then starred as a central attacker in a Champions League match against Bayer Leverkusen, scoring his first career hat-trick in a 4-0 victory.

With Jota struggling with injuries and Darwin Nunez out of form, Diaz’s ability to play as a central striker has been a bonus. He also played in this role against Manchester City, Fulham, and Tottenham, with his willingness to drop into midfield drawing praise from captain Virgil van Dijk. His play in the number nine role has even evoked memories of Roberto Firmino.

Diaz, of course, was seeking a kind of revenge in North London after his goal in last season’s 2-1 defeat at Tottenham was controversially ruled out by officials despite being confirmed by VAR. That issue was rectified in Sunday’s match.

Given Sadio Mane’s positional shift during the final months of his Liverpool career in 2022, Diaz is not the first winger to be successfully transformed into a potent central attacking force.

“I think it’s good,” says Gakpo of playing with Diaz, who occasionally shifts to the left while Gakpo moves to the center. “Sometimes he comes to the left and I go in the middle, then we switch again. It has been a good dynamic, and we both get in dangerous positions to score.”

“He showed again on Sunday how dangerous he is – in the box with his head, and his second goal I think was a great run and a good finish. I think when we play together, the way we click together is that we go in each other’s positions and going back, trying to make our actions and getting each other in the best possible position to be dangerous.”

With the return of Jota and Slot’s belief he can revive Nunez’s form, Diaz is expected to spend much of the season competing with Gakpo for the left-wing spot.

However, with 11 goals already this season, just two shy of his best-ever tally for Liverpool, Diaz will be crucial to any success under Slot. After all, as his song suggests, Diaz came to Liverpool to score.

December 25, 2024
Liverpool star prefers Barcelona move if contract negotiations with Reds break down

The futures of several Liverpool players are currently uncertain due to their contract situations at Anfield.

Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah, and Virgil van Dijk are all in the final year of their contracts with the club. However, there is another player whose future at the club is also in doubt due to a lack of agreement over a new deal.

According to Spanish outlet Antena 2, Liverpool are facing difficulties in their efforts to extend the contract of winger Luis Diaz. The report indicates that if a new contract cannot be agreed upon, Diaz may prefer a move to Barcelona, although other prominent clubs, such as Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan, are also keeping a close eye on his situation.

Diaz has been a key player for Liverpool, with his attacking contributions playing a major role in the team’s success this season. He has helped the team reach the top of the Premier League and the Champions League standings.

The report also mentions that Liverpool value Diaz at approximately €80 million (£66.2m/$83.5m), a sum that financially-strapped Barcelona would find difficult to afford. Despite this, Diaz is reportedly keen on joining the Spanish giants, though Barcelona would face challenges in negotiating a transfer.

Luis Diaz has been an integral part of Liverpool’s squad, scoring nine goals and providing three assists so far this season. He has firmly established himself as the first-choice left-winger for the club.

Liverpool would prefer to retain Diaz and are likely to make every effort to ensure he remains at Anfield for the long term. With Salah approaching the final years of his career in the Premier League, it is crucial for the team to hold on to key players like Diaz, who can both score and create goals.

The Colombian international still has much room for growth in his career, and his potential is high. However, it remains to be seen whether his future will be at Liverpool or elsewhere.

In addition to Diaz’s situation, teammate Alexander-Arnold has been tipped to leave the club in the near future, while Lyon’s attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki has been linked with a move to Anfield.

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“He will depart and I’m certain” – Transfer expert reveals major Liverpool update

Liverpool have undergone a complete transformation under Arne Slot this season. They are currently at the top of both the Premier League and Champions League standings, seemingly unstoppable.

Key players such as Mohamed Salah, Ryan Gravenberch, Virgil Van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold have all been performing excellently, with each of them reaching new heights under the Dutch manager’s guidance.

However, one player has drawn criticism from fans for his performances this season. Darwin Nunez has scored just two goals in 11 Premier League matches, a disappointing return for a striker playing in a team challenging for titles.

Transfer expert David Lynch believes that Nunez is likely to leave Liverpool at the end of the season. He shared his thoughts with Sports Mole:

“It’s essentially settled now. I just don’t think there’s a debate there around Nunez. I think the die’s cast now. I think Nunez is what he is – two-and-a-half seasons in now, he hasn’t lived up to expectations, so the job is now to get the best out of him that you can between now and the end of the season, and then he will leave and I’m sure he’ll find somewhere else where [he will] fit better and [be] more appreciated.”

“It’s not been a very good signing, but as I say, it’s just important now to refocus on what he can do and what he can contribute between now and May.”

Liverpool require additional goals from Darwin Nunez

Liverpool need more goals from Nunez, as while his work rate has been commendable, his finishing has been a significant concern for the team.

His lack of awareness in front of goal and failure to capitalize on chances has cost Liverpool points this season, especially in the recent match against Newcastle United.

To address this, Liverpool are reportedly considering Brighton’s Joao Pedro as a potential replacement for Nunez next year, with Inter Milan’s Marcus Thuram also catching the club’s attention.

For Liverpool to reach the next level, they need a more prolific goal-scorer in their attack.

December 22, 2024
Liverpool’s contract offer has displeased key player, who may now depart in the summer

Liverpool are currently grappling with contract issues concerning several of their players.

At the forefront of these concerns are Mohamed Salah, Virgil Van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, all of whom are entering the final year of their contracts.

Their long-term futures at Anfield remain in question, and with the start of the new year, these players will have the opportunity to negotiate pre-contract agreements with other clubs.

Another Liverpool player now facing questions about his future at the club is Luis Diaz.

Reports from Colombia suggest that discussions between Liverpool and Diaz regarding a new contract are not progressing smoothly.

According to Colombian outlet Antenna 2, Diaz’s future at the club remains uncertain, as the offer Liverpool made was not well received by the Colombian international.

The club’s offer was far from what Diaz expected, which could potentially lead to his departure at the end of the season.

Despite this, negotiations will continue with Diaz over a new contract, and Liverpool are determined to finalize it soon. However, a failure to reach an agreement could see him leave the club in 2025.

The 27-year-old has been one of the standout players this season for Arne Slot’s side, contributing to the team’s success with 17 wins out of the 19 matches played so far.

While things are going well on the pitch for Liverpool, off-the-field issues, particularly the future of some of their players, are proving problematic.

Liverpool have mishandled the contract situation

It is quite surprising to see a club as well-managed as Liverpool struggling to secure new deals for their players.

Alongside Salah, Van Dijk, and Alexander-Arnold, Diaz is a key figure for the club’s ambitions of winning silverware in the future.

Losing any of these players next year would deal a significant blow to the project that Slot is building at Anfield.

Among all the players, Caoimhin Kelleher is the one most likely to be sold by the club next summer.

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Liverpool target Premier League star as future replacement for key defender

Liverpool is reportedly interested in Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez as they prepare to replace Andy Robertson, according to Teamtalk. The Reds have made an impressive start this season, currently sitting just one point behind league leaders Manchester City.

In the Champions League, they have won all their matches so far, signaling a promising future under new manager Arne Slot, who believes the team can compete for major titles this season. However, Slot is concerned about the futures of several players at Anfield, as Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah, and Virgil Van Dijk are all in the final year of their contracts.

Slot is looking to reinforce his squad in key positions, particularly at left-back, where Robertson has struggled this season, notably in the recent match against Arsenal. The report suggests that the Premier League club sees Kerkez as a long-term replacement for the 30-year-old Robertson, whose best years may be behind him.

Milos Kerkez is willing to consider a transfer to Liverpool

Bournemouth is aware that Kerkez is likely in his final season at the club and anticipates that a transfer to a larger English club will occur next year. Liverpool is expected to make a bid for the defender, seemingly leading the race for his signature.

Milos Kerkez is reportedly open to a move to Liverpool, viewing it as an ideal opportunity to advance his career. However, the Reds will face competition from Manchester United, who are also seeking cover for injury-prone players Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia.

Recent comments from Slot suggest he may no longer prefer to start Robertson, with Kostas Tsimikas taking his place in the lineup. Additionally, there is speculation that Trent Alexander-Arnold could also leave the club.

November 30, 2024
Liverpool cleared to make an offer and negotiate terms with £4.7 million-a-year player – Report

Liverpool, under the guidance of Arne Slot, has made a strong start to the season, securing four wins in five Premier League matches, with their only defeat being a surprising 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest at Anfield.

Key figures for the team include Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz. Salah has been in excellent form, netting five goals and providing one assist in five league appearances.

Luis Diaz, often critiqued for his lack of clinical finishing, has turned a corner this season. Earning approximately £4.7 million annually, his salary seems modest for a regular starter at one of England’s top clubs.

According to *Football Insider*, Liverpool is now cleared to make a new, improved contract offer to Diaz. Currently under contract until 2027, discussions are expected to begin soon.

Despite interest from Barcelona and PSG over the summer, Liverpool opted to keep Diaz, a decision that has proven wise given his strong performance so far.

The question remains: can the former Primeira Liga star maintain his consistency throughout the season? Previous injuries have hindered his momentum, and fans hope this will not be the case again.

For Liverpool to achieve success this season, Salah and Diaz must continue to drive the team with their goals and assists.

It will be interesting to see if this duo can lead Slot’s squad to a trophy in the Dutch coach’s inaugural season.

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According to report – Liverpool ready to negotiate a major deal after player turns down contract offer

Trent Alexander-Arnold is a standout player for Liverpool, boasting an impressive 101 goal contributions in 315 matches as a full-back. At just 25, he is already the club’s vice-captain and a key figure on the team.

Currently, Liverpool faces a pressing issue regarding Alexander-Arnold’s future, as his contract runs out in 2025.

According to Team Talk, the club is prepared to offer him one of the highest salaries to ensure he remains at Anfield, especially after he declined an initial contract proposal.

Real Madrid, renowned for their talent acquisition, is reportedly interested in making a free transfer for the England international next summer.

The Spanish club has recently focused on securing top players without transfer fees, as seen with their signing of Kylian Mbappe when his contract with PSG ended.

Liverpool is eager to avoid losing Alexander-Arnold, particularly not to a rival like Real Madrid. This situation isn’t unique to him; club legends Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah are also in similar predicaments, although their ages—33 and 32 respectively—make their retention less critical compared to that of the younger Alexander-Arnold.

Negotiations may prove challenging, and it could take time for Liverpool to persuade him. He certainly merits being among the highest-paid players globally, so it remains to be seen if the club can finalize a new deal soon.

September 24, 2024
Liverpool player poised to become the ‘main man’ after Mohamed Salah leaves

Liverpool has long anticipated the day when Mohamed Salah might leave, but it seems a successor is already emerging at Anfield. Although Salah’s future remains uncertain, it has been suggested that a new key player is ready to step up when the time comes.

Since the beginning of the Arne Slot era, Salah has quickly demonstrated his value, being instrumental in Liverpool’s first three Premier League matches with three goals and three assists.

Though his form has been quieter recently, he has made a strong case for a contract extension, which sporting director Richard Hughes will need to address alongside the futures of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk.

Despite the uncertainties surrounding contracts, Liverpool has promising talents ready to emerge. While losing Salah would be significant, Troy Deeney believes that the future star is already within the squad.

In his BBC Team of the Week, Deeney praised Luis Diaz, noting that only Erling Haaland has scored more goals than him at the start of the season, including a standout performance against Bournemouth.

“On the right [sic] for Liverpool he was the best player on the pitch by a country mile,” Deeney remarked. “I appreciate this is a massive statement, but it made me think if Liverpool do let Mohamed Salah go, he could take over as the main man.”

Deeney highlighted Diaz’s versatility, enthusiasm, and impressive goal-scoring, comparing him to a peak Sadio Mane, who once rivaled Salah for acclaim at Liverpool. However, doubts about Diaz’s consistency remain, and more performances are needed to confirm he can be a world-class winger.

Salah serves as a reminder that players develop at different paces; he himself was a late bloomer. Given the advancements in sports science, Diaz, at 27, might just be on the brink of his prime. He could even end up replacing Salah directly, as Deeney suggests, referencing how Mane initially played on the right before Salah’s arrival.

Whether Diaz takes over the right wing or shares the attacking load, he is showing signs of being ready to step up when Salah departs. This is commendable praise.

Hughes should prioritize a new contract for Diaz, who is still under the terms of a deal signed in January 2022. If he’s being considered as the new “main man,” his contract should reflect that.

Liverpool.com expresses hope that Slot can continue to utilize both Salah and Diaz, who have formed a potent partnership early in the season. Even if Salah stays for now, having another key player alongside him would significantly enhance Slot’s chances of success at Liverpool.

September 23, 2024
Núñez shines and Anfield reacts – 5 key takeaways from Liverpool 3-0 Bournemouth.

Liverpool shifted into high gear, securing a 3-0 victory over Bournemouth in the first half as their attacking players hit their stride and the midfield functioned effectively.

Liverpool 3-0 Bournemouth

Luis Diaz is the standout performer so far

Diaz netted eight goals in the Premier League last season, his highest tally since joining the club in January 2022. This season, he is already just three goals shy of that mark, having scored his fourth and fifth with two impressive finishes against Bournemouth.

This brace also means he has five goals in his last four matches, following a pair against Man United and an earlier goal against Brentford in the season’s first home game.

He nearly added to his tally when he hit the post in the first half against Nottingham Forest, which might have altered the game’s outcome. Liverpool boasts a robust attacking lineup this season, and so far, Diaz has emerged as the star.

Anfield reacted with energy

During the loss to Forest, the team failed to provide Anfield with anything to rally behind. It wasn’t just the defeat but the lackluster performance that left the crowd without motivation. In contrast, the match against Bournemouth saw the team’s determination off the ball energize the fans.

The names of Andy Robertson, Ibrahima Konate, and Darwin Nunez echoed through the stands early in the game, primarily for their defensive contributions rather than attacking play. This highlights that it’s not only the dynamic offensive moves—of which there were many—that engage the crowd.

Anfield was vibrant on a warm September afternoon, and this time, the atmosphere matched the occasion. While it may not have reached the intensity of a European night, for a 3 PM Saturday kickoff, it was quite lively as the team and supporters united.

Nunez made a strong impression in his first start under Arne Slot

Stepping in for Diogo Jota. He showcased his usual dynamism, effectively leading the line and pressing opposing players in defense.

Chants of “Nunez, Nunez” filled Anfield whenever the Uruguayan was involved, whether on or off the ball—often blending both in the same play.

On one notable occasion, he surged onto a pass from Mohamed Salah, who was positioned for a return pass, while Diaz, in pursuit of a hat-trick, made his own run. Everyone anticipated Nunez’s next move, but he opted to find the far corner instead, scoring Liverpool’s third goal and sealing the game.

Although he had a few misplaced passes in promising positions as the match progressed, he demonstrated sharpness and a readiness to contribute under his new manager.

A dynamic midfield has discovered its rhythm.

The midfield dynamic has emerged as one of the most intriguing aspects of the Slot era thus far.

At times during the match, Ryan Gravenberch operated as the sole holding player when Liverpool advanced up the pitch, creating a formation resembling *4-1-4-1*.

In deeper buildup phases, a box of four formed, with the striker dropping back to support Dominic Szoboszlai in an attacking midfield role, while Alexis Mac Allister and Gravenberch held a position in front of the defense.

This might be part of the tactical approach that Darwin Núñez needed to adapt to.

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s ability to drop into midfield was evident as the right-back advanced centrally to assist in Díaz’s second goal.

There were impressive interactions among the three designated midfielders; while Szoboszlai may not heavily impact player ratings in this match, his linkup play contributed significantly to the effective midfield performance, especially in the first half.

Slot’s rotation choices will be eager to seize their opportunities.

Every player on Liverpool’s bench will be eager for the opportunity to start against West Ham in the Carabao Cup midweek.

They will want to be part of the positive momentum established during the Slot era.

Aside from the defeat against Forest, which can now be seen as a minor setback—a lesson learned—this Liverpool side has been one of the strongest in the early stages of the season.

Players like Jarell Quansah will be eager to prove themselves after being substituted at half-time in the opening match.

Joe Gomez and Curtis Jones share a similar mindset, both wanting to demonstrate their value, while Cody Gakpo aims to build on his solid performance in Milan.

Additionally, there is excitement surrounding new signing Federico Chiesa, who is yet to make his first start.

He could potentially feature against West Ham after an impressive cameo in his debut at Anfield, taking a shot with his first touch of the ball.

September 21, 2024
Liverpool have chosen which player will be the first to receive a new contract offer

Liverpool are approaching a crucial period for finalizing new contracts for some of their key players.

While the Reds have enjoyed an impeccable start to the Premier League season, off-field matters have somewhat overshadowed their achievements.

This situation isn’t Arne Slot’s fault; the new head coach has inherited significant contract issues from Jurgen Klopp.

Although Slot has performed exceptionally well on the pitch, it is now time for him to demonstrate his capability off the field.

Following Mohamed Salah’s recent public challenge to Liverpool on live television, fans are eagerly awaiting definitive progress on new contracts. It seems that progress is imminent.

Luis Diaz is expected to receive a new contract from Liverpool. Fans would undoubtedly appreciate hearing that Salah has agreed to a new deal with the club.

Reflecting on 2022, when Salah signed his previous extension, it was a surprise. Fans would welcome a similar surprise now.

The same goes for Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk. A simultaneous announcement of contract extensions for these three would be well received. This could be Liverpool’s intention.

However, another contract issue has recently emerged involving Luis Diaz.

Recent reports suggest that Liverpool are not overly concerned about Diaz’s contract situation.

Yet, journalist Graeme Bailey, speaking exclusively to Rousing The Kop, indicates that Liverpool will offer Diaz a new deal, possibly even before finalizing deals for the headline trio.

“He is going to get his new contract, I believe,” says Bailey. “Liverpool have been somewhat displeased with the way his representatives have handled negotiations. However, they acknowledge that he deserves a wage increase and improved terms.

“I think he might even be sorted out before Trent Alexander-Arnold,” Bailey adds. “Diaz and Trent are the main priorities. Discussions with Salah are planned, but they hope Diaz and Trent might be completed first.”

As for the other three contracts, Diaz’s extension will be a positive development for fans, but it’s clear that supporters are primarily focused on the contracts of Salah, Van Dijk, and Alexander-Arnold.

Bailey suggests that the October international break will be a critical period for these negotiations. “I expect that discussions will take place around the October international break, with all parties presenting their positions,” says the journalist.

“We will have a clearer picture by then, and I believe Arne Slot will play a significant role in this.”

September 6, 2024
Alan Shearer reveals the FOUR Liverpool Stars who shocked Manchester United in his team of the week

Liverpool have climbed to joint-first place in the Premier League after a convincing 3-0 win over Manchester United.

Following the victory, Steven Gerrard sent a message to Trent Alexander-Arnold, praising him for his role in securing another impressive win against their rivals.

Chris Sutton had forecasted a Liverpool win over Manchester United, and that prediction proved accurate for Arne Slot and his squad.

Luis Diaz scored twice, and Mohamed Salah added a third goal as Liverpool defeated the Red Devils in Manchester with ease.

Liverpool now holds nine points from their first three games, matching the record of only reigning champions Manchester City.

Alan Shearer included four Liverpool players in his Team of the Week following the latest Premier League matches, with manager Slot also receiving recognition.

Shearer highlighted Virgil van Dijk, remarking, “Another immense performance by Liverpool’s captain.”

He also praised midfielder Ryan Gravenberch, noting, “With all the talk about Liverpool needing a midfielder, Gravenberch has stepped up massively. He won possession several times and was a forward threat.”

Attackers Salah and Diaz were also featured, with Shearer commenting on Salah: “He just loves this fixture. Two assists, another goal, could have had a hat-trick. Hopefully, it won’t be his last match at Old Trafford.”

Of Diaz, Shearer said: “A livewire from the start. Manchester United couldn’t cope with his pace or skill, and he capped off an excellent display with a brace.”

Shearer also named Slot his manager of the week, praising his start at Liverpool: “He’s got Liverpool almost perfectly tuned after only three matches in charge.”

Liverpool impressed across the board against Manchester United, who have had a rocky start to the season.

Historically, this fixture has been challenging for Liverpool, as Jurgen Klopp experienced in his final season, with the previous league encounters ending in draws and Manchester United eliminating Liverpool from the FA Cup.

However, there were no issues this time for Slot and his team, who delivered a highly professional performance.

Defensively, Alisson was crucial in maintaining a clean sheet, while his defenders were focused and effective.

Gravenberch excelled in Manchester, alongside his midfield partners, while the attackers showcased another formidable performance.

September 3, 2024
“Salah’s Bold Statement & Midfield Masterclass: 5 Shocking Takeaways from Man United 0-3 Liverpool”

It was an immensely satisfying victory at Old Trafford and a notable moment early in Arne Slot’s tenure, as Liverpool secured their third consecutive win with no goals conceded.

Man United 0-3 Liverpool
Premier League (3), Old Trafford
September 1, 2024

Goals: Diaz 35’ 42’, Salah 56’

Mo Salah the genius

Liverpool have always valued Salah as a goalscorer. He’s currently fifth on the club’s all-time top-scorers list and could potentially move into the top three by the time he departs. Since joining in 2017, he’s been the top scorer every season.

However, Salah’s game encompasses more than just scoring, as demonstrated against United.

His two assists set the stage for Liverpool’s success—first with a precise cross from his weaker right foot to Luis Diaz at the far post, and second with a well-placed pass through a tight space to Diaz, who finished expertly with a first-time shot.

Diaz shone brightly, earning the Man of the Match accolade from Jamie Carragher on Sky Sports, boosting his confidence, but Salah orchestrated this triumph.

Salah’s comprehensive performance was compelling, and he seemed genuinely content on the field.

For added impact, he scored the third goal, reflecting Liverpool’s dominance and capping his impressive display with a 9.2 rating on FotMob.

Nonetheless, Salah’s post-match comments about his contract situation may shift some focus away from the win, as he admitted this might be his “last season at the club” as things stand.

Double pivot dynamic

Liverpool’s midfield setup in front of the back four has been a major topic of discussion all summer, but it has so far worked well as the season began.

Ryan Gravenberch is one of the two midfielders in that area, frequently positioning himself advanced at Old Trafford.

Although Gravenberch is filling in the No. 6 role after the club didn’t sign a player for that position during the transfer window, it’s more of a double pivot arrangement (potentially a 4-2-3-1).

Alexis Mac Allister contributed to the midfield cleanup before the second goal, reclaiming possession and advancing the ball after Diaz outmuscled Casemiro.

The full-backs also play a role in this setup. Andy Robertson often remains at left-back instead of advancing, maintaining a compact shape and guarding against counter-attacks.

Trent Alexander-Arnold joins the midfield during buildup, allowing Gravenberch to move up alongside Dominic Szoboszlai, while Mac Allister creates from the left.

Mac Allister struggled defensively as a lone No. 6 under Klopp, but this setup, with Gravenberch and Robertson around him, mitigates that issue.

Challenges may arise against stronger opposition and as the season progresses, but early signs are positive.

Arne Slot’s first statement victory

Arne Slot’s Liverpool delivered a resounding defeat to Erik ten Hag’s Man United. ‘Ten Hag’s at the wheel’ was chanted by the traveling Liverpool fans.

This was exemplified in the first half by Casemiro’s difficulties against Liverpool’s vigorous press, and even though the Brazilian was substituted at halftime, it made little difference.

There were boos at Old Trafford following Liverpool’s third goal with ten minutes remaining in the second half.

The away fans were enjoying themselves, marking a significant win for Slot early in his Liverpool tenure.

Matches against United are not always straightforward, regardless of current form.

Liverpool have performed well at Old Trafford before but failed to win, including in last season’s FA Cup.

This was a controlled, decisive victory that left United reeling and ensured nothing was left to chance.

Content Alexander-Arnold

Alexander-Arnold’s reaction to being substituted in Liverpool’s previous game against Brentford drew considerable attention.

With his contract ending this season and the surrounding narrative, his clear disappointment and dissatisfaction with being substituted, despite Liverpool’s 2-0 win, was concerning.

Despite this, Slot substituted him again against United, but the reaction was different.

Trent initially seemed indifferent as he walked off, but he soon smiled as the Liverpool fans cheered him. He then shared hugs with Conor Bradley and Slot, contrasting sharply with his previous reaction.

He smiled for most of the rest of the match and blew kisses to Liverpool fans at the end. This was a more promising sign of both good man management from Slot and a positive attitude from the player despite last week’s disappointment.

Competing with Man City at the top

After just three games into the new season, an international break is already here.

While an early break can be disruptive, there will be satisfaction in the Liverpool camp after this successful run, marking the start of a new era.

The tactical plan is taking shape on the field, and the results have followed.

Even at this early stage, Liverpool are the only team to match Man City’s perfect start.

Slot’s transition from Jurgen Klopp, a club legend, could have been more challenging, but he has met expectations and matched Man City’s performance.

Liverpool’s next three league games after the international break are against Nottingham Forest, Bournemouth, and Wolves.

September 2, 2024