{"id":142529,"date":"2025-05-29T22:31:22","date_gmt":"2025-05-29T22:31:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/142529\/"},"modified":"2025-05-29T22:31:22","modified_gmt":"2025-05-29T22:31:22","slug":"liverpool-already-eyeing-three-potential-luis-diaz-replacements-amid-saudi-interest","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/142529\/","title":{"rendered":"Liverpool Already Eyeing Three Potential Luis Diaz Replacements Amid Saudi Interest"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"Join<\/a><\/p>\n

As Liverpool bask in the glow of a Premier League title under new boss Arne Slot, the club\u2019s recruitment team is already hard at work shaping the squad for next season. Yet, as is often the case with successful sides, change may come from unexpected directions. According to an exclusive report by Anfield Watch<\/a>, Luis Diaz\u2019s future at Anfield is now uncertain, with Barcelona and Saudi Arabian clubs expressing strong interest in the Colombian winger.<\/p>\n

With two years left on his contract and talks over an extension reportedly stalling, Diaz is believed to be exploring his options. This has sparked speculation over potential replacements, and Anfield Watch<\/a> have identified three names Liverpool are monitoring as part of a forward-thinking approach to squad building.<\/p>\n

Mahgnes Akliouche Offers Creative Spark<\/p>\n

One standout name is AS Monaco\u2019s Mahgnes Akliouche, a technically gifted winger and attacking midfielder. Liverpool are said to have \u201calready made contact to sign\u201d the Frenchman, who has quietly been one of Ligue 1\u2019s most creative forces this season.<\/p>\n

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Akliouche leads the league in key passes per 90 minutes (1.04), while ranking third in expected assists (0.23 xA per 90). His ability to thread passes into the box (3.69 per 90) gives him a unique edge, especially in a Liverpool side looking to add more finesse behind their aggressive pressing style.<\/p>\n

\"\"Photo: IMAGO<\/p>\n

While he lacks Diaz\u2019s direct explosiveness, Akliouche\u2019s intelligent movement and vision could dovetail beautifully with the likes of Florian Wirtz, who is expected to play a central role next season. \u201cHe\u2019s got the creativity and the ability to link-up with his teammates,\u201d Anfield Watch noted \u2014 a skillset that aligns with Slot\u2019s tactical philosophy.<\/p>\n

Malick Fofana Represents Raw Potential<\/p>\n

Another emerging talent on Liverpool\u2019s radar is Malick Fofana, the 20-year-old winger from Lyon. Known for his pace and willingness to drive at defenders, Fofana ranked in the 98th percentile for progressive carries (6.72 per 90) and recorded 17 goal contributions in 41 appearances.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s still raw and an inconsistent finisher,\u201d Anfield Watch admits, \u201cbut that\u2019s something he could learn to improve under Slot.\u201d With Gakpo occupying a likely starting role, Fofana would be a calculated bet on future potential, offering versatility and energy off the bench.<\/p>\n

\"\"Photo: IMAGO<\/p>\n

His profile suits the ethos of a team looking to build sustainably rather than simply replace stars like-for-like. As with Akliouche, Fofana wouldn\u2019t replicate Diaz\u2019s style but could evolve into an equally valuable contributor.<\/p>\n

Rio Ngumoha Could Be Internal Solution<\/p>\n

Perhaps the most intriguing option is already in-house. Rio Ngumoha, just 17, has been quietly impressing in training since his move from Chelsea. His performance in the FA Cup against Accrington this season offered a tantalising glimpse of his attacking ability.<\/p>\n

\u201cNgumoha could be a generational prospect,\u201d the report argues. He is said to be \u201cmesmerising\u201d in one-on-one situations and eager to seize the opportunities Liverpool promised when he joined.<\/p>\n

\"\"Photo: IMAGO<\/p>\n

Slot has shown early in his tenure that he\u2019s not afraid to lean on youth, and Ngumoha could benefit from rotational minutes rather than being sent out on loan. With the right development path, the club might find they don\u2019t need to dip into the transfer market at all.<\/p>\n

Our View \u2013 Anfield Index Analysis<\/p>\n

Luis Diaz leaving Liverpool would undoubtedly sting for many supporters. He\u2019s become a cult favourite with his flair and fight, but in the context of evolving under a new manager, his potential departure feels like part of a wider transition.<\/p>\n

Arne Slot\u2019s title-winning debut season showcased his ability to get the best out of dynamic, technical players who thrive under structured freedom. That makes Akliouche a mouthwatering prospect \u2014 his numbers in Ligue 1 speak to a player who can contribute right away but still grow under elite coaching.<\/p>\n

Fofana is a gamble, but Liverpool\u2019s track record with young wingers (like a certain Mohamed Salah once was) suggests they know when to invest. If they can hone his decision-making and finishing, he could explode under Slot\u2019s guidance.<\/p>\n

Ngumoha, though, is perhaps the fan-favourite pick. Liverpool fans love seeing a youngster break through \u2014 think of Trent Alexander-Arnold or Curtis Jones. With Diaz\u2019s departure possibly freeing up minutes and Ngumoha having already earned senior appearances, the timing feels right.<\/p>\n

This report from Anfield Watch raises an important point: replacing Diaz doesn\u2019t mean finding a clone. Instead, Liverpool could reshape their forward options around versatility, creativity and long-term value. In truth, all three targets offer exciting possibilities \u2014 it\u2019s now up to Slot, Hughes and the recruitment team to get the balance right.<\/p>\n

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