Report: Luis Diaz Liverpool Future in Doubt Amid European Interest No current Arsenal talks but summer interest expected Luis Diaz’s future at Liverpool has taken centre stage once again following Fabrizio Romano’s latest update in the Daily Briefing, and the timing of the noise around the Colombian international is far from ideal. With the business […]

The post Romano: Liverpool may lose key attacker with Barcelona among admirers appeared first on anfieldindex.com.

No current Arsenal talks but summer interest expected

Luis Diaz’s future at Liverpool has taken centre stage once again following Fabrizio Romano’s latest update in the Daily Briefing, and the timing of the noise around the Colombian international is far from ideal. With the business end of the season in full flow and Arne Slot preparing for his first summer window in charge, speculation over a potential exit for Diaz is increasing.

Romano states:

“My information at the moment is that there is nothing advanced or concrete in terms of new contract talks at Liverpool.”

This clarification puts to bed immediate talk of a new deal for Diaz, who has two years left on his current contract. More notably, the respected transfer journalist confirmed interest in Diaz from several clubs, including teams from the Saudi Pro League and Barcelona.

“There is already interest from several clubs around Europe in Diaz and also abroad. There’s interest from Saudi, as mentioned, but he’s also appreciated by some people at Barcelona.”

Goal drought and inconsistency fuelling speculation

Diaz’s tally of nine Premier League goals this season—second only to Mohamed Salah’s 27—may look respectable on paper, but dig deeper and the form guide is less flattering. The Colombian has found the net just once in his last 18 appearances for Liverpool, leading to increased scrutiny.

Photo: IMAGO

That said, his performances during the March international break, where he scored in consecutive matches for Colombia, offered a timely reminder of his quality. However, if that form isn’t carried back into the Premier League run-in, questions around his long-term role will only intensify.

Romano added:

“In January there was some interest from the Saudi Pro League, with clubs approaching Diaz. He wanted to stay at the club and Liverpool didn’t want to change the squad at that moment.”

Strong possibility of summer exit

What Romano suggests next is more worrying for Liverpool supporters.

“It’s still early in this story, but in general there is a feeling that Diaz, as well as Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez, could be leaving Anfield in the summer transfer window.”

With Liverpool keen to rebuild under Arne Slot, who is expected to implement a more structured and possession-based approach, changes to the forward line might not come as a surprise. Diaz’s pressing game and direct style have suited Liverpool in flashes, but consistency has been elusive.

While Romano also mentioned Arsenal as a club linked with Diaz, he was quick to dismiss any imminent move.

“I have nothing to report on the links with Arsenal. But let’s see between now and the end of the season what happens with the Colombian winger.”

Possible replacements already on radar

Should Diaz depart, Liverpool are expected to move swiftly in the market. Reports have suggested that Newcastle United’s Anthony Gordon is on the radar once again. With Cody Gakpo a potential candidate to step up on the left flank, the club will likely seek another high-potential wide player to maintain depth.

Photo: IMAGO

Slot’s preference for tactical flexibility will demand quality options across the front line. A Diaz exit would undoubtedly leave a hole—but also offer Liverpool an opportunity to reshape their attacking identity.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

The idea of Luis Diaz leaving Anfield this summer is cause for concern. While he may not have matched the productivity levels of Salah, he has been one of the few players capable of producing something from nothing—especially in tight, low-block games.

His current dry spell doesn’t erase his importance. He offers width, unpredictability and a relentless work ethic. Unless Liverpool are planning to reinvest significantly—and wisely—selling Diaz feels premature.

There’s also the emotional element. His return from personal adversity last year, following the traumatic situation with his father’s kidnapping, was met with overwhelming support from fans. There’s a bond there that shouldn’t be easily broken.

And while Anthony Gordon has impressed this season, it would be a gamble to place too much expectation on a player who has yet to prove himself at Liverpool’s level on the European stage.

Photo: IMAGO

More pressingly, this would represent yet another summer of upheaval. With Klopp gone and Slot in charge, Liverpool need to manage change carefully. Losing a forward of Diaz’s quality without a guaranteed upgrade feels risky—especially when the squad already faces transition in other key areas.

In short, the message from supporters is simple: if Diaz does go, Liverpool must have a top-tier plan in place.

Adblock test (Why?)

Predict the upcoming Premier League fixtures and see if Liverpool can finish the season as champions

Predict the upcoming Premier League fixtures and see if Liverpool can finish the season as champions

Liverpool legends Jamie Carragher and Steven Gerrard team up as Football For Change announces its first round of 2025 funding for disadvantaged young people across the region

Liverpool legends Jamie Carragher and Steven Gerrard team up as Football For Change announces its first round of 2025 funding for disadvantaged young people across the region

Report: Why Liverpool’s Interest in Buying Malaga Signals a Bold Strategic Shift Liverpool’s pursuit of sustained success may soon stretch far beyond the confines of Anfield. With Fenway Sports Group (FSG) now seriously exploring a potential acquisition of Spanish side Malaga, the Merseyside club could be on the cusp of embracing the multi-club model—a growing […]

The post Liverpool in talks over buying Malaga as part of new strategic push appeared first on anfieldindex.com.

Liverpool’s pursuit of sustained success may soon stretch far beyond the confines of Anfield. With Fenway Sports Group (FSG) now seriously exploring a potential acquisition of Spanish side Malaga, the Merseyside club could be on the cusp of embracing the multi-club model—a growing phenomenon within European football.

This isn’t a decision being made on a whim. With Arne Slot steering Liverpool through a period of transition, and former sporting director Michael Edwards now installed as CEO of football within FSG, the intent to evolve the footballing operation into something broader and more futureproofed is plain to see.

But what’s the logic behind buying a fallen La Liga club like Malaga? And how does it fit into Liverpool’s wider ambitions?

Malaga move highlights Liverpool’s long-term ambitions

Talks have already taken place. Representatives from Liverpool’s ownership group have reportedly engaged with multiple Spanish clubs—Levante, Espanyol, Elche, Getafe, and Real Valladolid among them—but it’s Malaga, the 2012/13 Champions League quarter-finalists, that has emerged as the primary target.

The situation at Malaga is complex. The club has endured years of financial instability and administrative chaos since its post-2010 rise under Sheikh Abdullah Al Thani. Relegated to the Spanish third tier and only recently promoted back to the Segunda División, Malaga is a club with clear potential—but also clear complications.

Photo IMAGO

FSG met with Malaga’s officials in February, and while no firm bid has been tabled yet, the intent is unmistakable. Reports suggest they are considering taking over the 51% stake held by Sheikh Al Thani. That may not be straightforward, given the club’s ongoing administrative status and rival interest from Paris Saint-Germain, whose parent company QSI is also keen on Malaga as part of their expanding sporting empire.

Michael Edwards and the expansion plan

The timing of Liverpool’s interest in buying a second club coincides closely with the return of Michael Edwards, a figure widely credited with masterminding the club’s data-driven rise under Jürgen Klopp. Edwards has been open about the strategic shift.

“One of the biggest factors in my decision is the commitment to acquire and oversee an additional club, growing this area of their organisation,” he said following his appointment. “I believe that to remain competitive, investment and expansion of the current football portfolio is necessary.”

Liverpool, until now, have bucked the trend of multi-club ownership. Unlike Manchester City’s City Football Group or Chelsea’s BlueCo, FSG have largely kept their football interests confined to Anfield, while diversifying in other sports such as MLB’s Boston Red Sox and NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins.

This new approach, though, reflects a changing football landscape. In a market increasingly dominated by networks and affiliations, standing still is not an option. And Edwards, ever the strategist, appears keen to ensure Liverpool aren’t left behind.

Legal green light and developmental benefits

UEFA have, in recent years, softened restrictions around multi-club ownership, particularly when it comes to clubs competing in the same competitions. The regulatory framework still carries caveats, but the path is now clearer for strategic expansion.

Liverpool’s interest in Malaga should be viewed through this lens. Yes, there are commercial advantages—brand growth, merchandise, new markets—but the core of the plan likely centres on player development.

Running a second club, particularly in a top European nation like Spain, gives Liverpool an opportunity to loan out emerging talents into a controlled environment. Instead of sending players to clubs with differing football philosophies, they can now be placed in a system that mirrors Liverpool’s playing style, culture, and performance demands.

The potential is substantial. Young players gain experience, value is preserved—or increased—and first-team readiness is more easily assessed. It also opens up new scouting territories, especially in Southern Europe, and provides a platform to implement shared analytics, coaching methodologies and medical practices.

Malaga’s profile makes it a strategic fit

Why Malaga, specifically? Their recent struggles have masked a proud history and strong infrastructure. Situated in Andalusia, with a stadium capable of hosting over 30,000 fans and a loyal supporter base, Malaga offers a relatively low-cost, high-potential entry point into Spain’s football pyramid.

Their Champions League run in 2012/13, under Manuel Pellegrini and powered by a young Isco, remains fresh in the memory. Since then, financial mismanagement has dragged the club into chaos—but their name still carries weight.

Photo IMAGO

That matters in branding terms. It also helps when trying to secure favourable loan deals, negotiate sponsorships, or attract players who might otherwise be sceptical of joining an anonymous satellite club.

Of course, nothing is signed yet. With PSG’s owners circling, FSG must act quickly and decisively if they wish to bring Malaga under the Liverpool umbrella. But the intent is now public, and the strategy clear.

Liverpool’s interest in buying Malaga is about more than ownership—it’s about adaptation, evolution, and maintaining a seat at the top table of modern football.

Adblock test (Why?)

Tickets for the final games at Goodison and Anfield are on sale on some sites for over £1,000

Tickets for the final games at Goodison and Anfield are on sale on some sites for over £1,000

Stewart Downing has opened up on his initiation after joining Liverpool, revealing Jordan Henderson refused to take part

Stewart Downing has opened up on his initiation after joining Liverpool, revealing Jordan Henderson refused to take part

Liverpool Plot Return to Asia for Pre-Season Showcase There’s always something stirring when Liverpool plan a pre-season tour. And this summer, the club is heading back to Asia, reigniting a connection with a fanbase that lives and breathes every kick, header and chant from Anfield—even from half a world away. Forget the sterile training camps […]

The post Liverpool to return to Asia for 2025 pre-season tour appeared first on anfieldindex.com.

There’s always something stirring when Liverpool plan a pre-season tour. And this summer, the club is heading back to Asia, reigniting a connection with a fanbase that lives and breathes every kick, header and chant from Anfield—even from half a world away.

Forget the sterile training camps in Europe—this one’s different. It’s got history, energy, and a bit of theatre. The Reds will take on AC Milan in Hong Kong on Saturday 26 July, marking not just a glamour fixture but the first football match ever played at the brand-new Kai Tak Stadium. That alone makes it a moment, but there’s more: the two clubs will face off for the Standard Chartered Trophy, an echo of that legendary 2005 night in Istanbul.

And that’s just the start.

Photo IMAGO AC Milan Clash Headlines Hong Kong Return

This won’t be Liverpool’s first trip to Hong Kong, but it’s been a while—the last time they set foot there for pre-season was in 2017. Since then, the club’s global profile has skyrocketed, with every international stop now becoming a sea of red shirts, local chants and a passion as raw as anything on the Kop.

“We’re extremely excited to be returning to Asia for this summer’s pre-season tour,” said Ben Latty, Liverpool’s chief commercial officer. “We’re very grateful to our principal partner, Standard Chartered, for their support in sponsoring the Standard Chartered Trophy against AC Milan, 20 years on from that magical night in Istanbul.”

Photo IMAGO

There’s always a bit of romance when Liverpool play Milan. It’s not just nostalgia—it’s about rekindling old rivalries and bringing elite football to corners of the world where every appearance by the Reds is treated like a festival.

Japan Awaits First-Ever Summer Visit

From Hong Kong, the Reds will move on to Japan—a first for Liverpool in a summer pre-season. The details of the Japan leg are still under wraps, but make no mistake: it’s going to be significant. Japan is no stranger to football passion, and the sight of Liverpool landing there will spark a frenzy.

The journey will be smooth too, thanks to Japan Airlines, the club’s official airline partner. “Japan Airlines is pleased to be the official airline partner of Liverpool FC’s 2025 international pre-season tour to Asia this summer,” said Junko Sakihara, deputy senior vice-president, customer experience at JAL. “We look forward to carrying the LFC players and staff on their journey and providing our award-winning hospitality and service so that they can arrive at each destination rested and ready for play.”

Photo Logos-world

It’s not just about football. Expect community outreach, cultural experiences and meet-and-greet sessions with club legends across the region. These aren’t just PR stops—they’re a chance to give something back to the fans who idolise the club from afar.

Strengthening Bonds Across Asia

Standard Chartered, Liverpool’s long-time partner, is backing this tour in full force. Mary Huen, CEO of Standard Chartered Hong Kong, put it best: “We are thrilled to bring the Reds back to Asia this July. This will offer local fans of the Reds, including our clients and colleagues, the extraordinary experience of watching the game in person. We look forward to seeing a full Kai Tak Stadium cheering on Arne Slot and the team.”

Liverpool last toured Asia in Singapore in 2023, but 2025 feels different. It’s a new era under Arne Slot, and this tour is a chance for the manager to set the tone with a new group, new ideas, and the same unshakable connection with the club’s massive Asian following.

For those eager to be part of it, ticket details are coming soon—and for anyone who’s been part of these pre-season tours before, you’ll know it’s more than just a game. It’s Liverpool on tour, and that means everything.

Adblock test (Why?)

Trent Alexander-Arnold's potential move to Real Madrid this summer has caused consternation among many Liverpool fans - and Match of the Day host Gary Lineker has had his say on the proposed switch

Trent Alexander-Arnold's potential move to Real Madrid this summer has caused consternation among many Liverpool fans - and Match of the Day host Gary Lineker has had his say on the proposed switch

The latest Liverpool news and gossip, including transfer rumours surrounding Alexander Isak, Hugo Larsson, Hugo Ekitike, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk and more

The latest Liverpool news and gossip, including transfer rumours surrounding Alexander Isak, Hugo Larsson, Hugo Ekitike, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk and more

Having only ever had Jurgen Klopp as manager during his professional career, Trent Alexander-Arnold has seen his role on the pitch diversify during Liverpool games thanks to Arne Slot

Having only ever had Jurgen Klopp as manager during his professional career, Trent Alexander-Arnold has seen his role on the pitch diversify during Liverpool games thanks to Arne Slot