© IMAGO – Arne Slot Liverpool
Liverpool took the decision to leave Federico Chiesa OUT of the travelling party for the pre-season Asian tour.
Chiesa, 27, has been omitted due to a minor injury issue, according to reports, but it would be no surprise to see the Italian wrap up an outgoing transfer while his teammates are out on tour.
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There is plenty of interest in Chiesa from Serie A – with Napoli now tipped to rekindle a bid for the Italy international. But while Chiesa was sidelined from the 29-strong panel jetting out to the Far East, Luis Diaz went with Arne Slot’s squad.
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His inclusion comes despite considerable uncertainty over his future. The last few days have seen bids from Bayern Munich for Diaz knocked back – with Liverpool said to be holding out for €100m before sanctioning a deal.
Diaz wants out of Liverpool
And now comes a report in Caught Offside that Diaz has in effect handed in a transfer request amid big interest in his services.
“The Colombian winger has “expressed his desire to leave” Liverpool and has verbally agreed to join the German giants,” the report reads.
Diaz remains contracted to Liverpool until 2027 but with time ticking down the Colombian international’s value is going to diminish.
So far Liverpool have been steadfast in their demands but might have to soon compromise in order to get a deal done with the German Bundesliga side.
Bayern yet to meet Liverpool demands
“Bayern Munich are reluctant to exceed €70 million in fixed payments, preferring to make up the difference with add-ons and performance-based bonuses,” the report continues.
It gives sporting director Richard Hughes and head coach Arne Slot a conundrum. Diaz scored 13 goals in the Premier League last season but at 28 there are no guarantees he can maintain that form long term.
That is why the club are willing to cash in – albeit on their terms and are unwilling to let him go for a cheap price.
© IMAGO
Diaz jet out, Ekitike jets in?
There are reports that Hugo Ekitike may well jet out to join up with his new teammates once his deal from Eintracht Frankfurt is sorted out.
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And there is every chance that Diaz could be on a return flight to Europe if a deal is struck in the upcoming days between Liverpool and Bayern.
Right now it’s in the balance and we await to see if Bayern make another bid which will suit the Reds.
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