The Klopp’s side have put forward their interest in Luis Diaz, who was also on Tottenham’s radar.
Liverpool agree to sign Luis Diaz
The Reds have agreed a deal to sign the Porto player before Monday’s transfer deadline. Liverpool have announced a surprise late bid for Luis Diaz, who until recently was scheduled to join Tottenham. The Klopp’s side will pay an initial fee of €45m, with an additional €15m in performance related extras.
The Reds initially wanted a summer deal for the Colombian international but put forward their interest after Spurs hastened them. Julian Ward, soon to be sporting director, is in talks, assisted by the outgoing Michael Edwards, and Luis – who is currently away with Colombia in Argentina – will sign a five-and-a-half-year deal at Anfield.
Diaz has played twice against Liverpool this season in the Champions League for Porto and although the Reds won both games comfortably, it’s understandable that their scouts were impressed with his progress.
Luis Diaz is seen as a player who has proven himself enough in a good league – and in European competition – but who, at 25 years old, still has significant room for improvement and development. Diaz has played predominantly on the left for Porto, but is able to take on other forward positions if necessary.
His arrival will greatly boost Jurgen Klopp’s attacking options in the final months of the season, with the Reds still fighting in four competitions. Luis will join Mane, Salah, Firmino and Jota in the competition for the bright spots, while Oxlade-Chamberlain has been doing well there in recent weeks.
A little about the topic
Luis’ arrival naturally casts doubt on the future of Minamino and Origi, which could now be sold ahead of schedule. Takumi Minamino has attracted interest from Leeds and Monaco, among others, and the Reds would be willing to sell if a suitable offer was received.
The same goes for Divock Origi, who is on the list of many clubs including Newcastle and Atalanta. The Belgian player is currently recovering from a knee injury but is due back for training in early February, and will be out of contract in June, as will be. The Phillips defender is another one who could leave, with Newcastle re-linked, along with Burnley and Watford, as well as clubs in Italy and Germany. The Reds want £15m for a 25 year old.