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We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
Luis Diaz has completed a £65.5 million transfer to Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich, bringing his successful three-and-a-half-year spell at Liverpool to an emotional end.
The 28-year-old Colombia international has signed a four-year deal with the German giants, who had an initial bid of £58.6m rejected earlier this month before returning with an improved offer that Liverpool accepted over the weekend.
Diaz, who was left out of Liverpool’s pre-season friendly against AC Milan on Saturday amid growing speculation, departs Anfield having won four major trophies — including the Premier League, FA Cup and EFL Cup.
Reflecting on his exit, Diaz posted a heartfelt farewell on Instagram:
“I arrived with all the dreams in the world, and I am leaving proud of everything we achieved together… It’s good to be leaving with the feeling of a duty fulfilled, and, most of all, to be leaving a champion.”
He added that his farewell would have been “perfect” if not for the tragic death of teammate Diogo Jota earlier this month:
“I will never forget him. We will never forget him. Thank you for everything.”
Diaz joined Liverpool from FC Porto for an initial £37m in January 2022. He scored 41 goals in 148 appearances and played a key role in Liverpool’s domestic double in his debut season. He was also part of the side that lost the 2022 UEFA Champions League final to Real Madrid.
His most prolific campaign came last season, netting 17 goals in all competitions and playing a central role in Liverpool’s Premier League title win — often deployed as a false nine in Arne Slot’s high-tempo, pressing system.
A Major Loss for Liverpool?
Diaz’s departure is not without consequence. Since his debut, he led Liverpool in completed dribbles and fouls won, while ranking second for goals, goal involvements, and touches in the opposition box. His pressing, energy, and ball-winning ability — especially in central areas — helped define Liverpool’s attacking identity under Slot.
His shot conversion rate last season was a personal best (19%), aided by frequent appearances in a central role — most notably a hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen in November.
Despite his relatively lean 5ft 10in frame, Diaz ranked among Liverpool’s top players for duels won and ball recoveries in the final third. However, his successor may already be in the building.
Filling the Void
Liverpool’s record signing Florian Wirtz, brought in from Bayer Leverkusen, is expected to take on a central attacking role. The 22-year-old German offers both flair and defensive work rate, having won possession in the final third more than any other Bundesliga player over the last two seasons.
On the left, Cody Gakpo — who scored 18 goals last term — is likely to benefit most directly from Diaz’s departure. Though less dynamic in tight spaces, Gakpo offers a strong goal threat.
Promising 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha has also impressed during pre-season, starting against Preston, Stoke, and AC Milan. While still early in his development, he could feature more regularly in the post-Diaz era.
Additionally, new signing Hugo Ekitike may offer further flexibility across the front line, particularly if Liverpool succeed in their ongoing pursuit of Newcastle’s Alexander Isak.
Financial Context
Diaz’s sale brings Liverpool’s summer transfer income to approximately £115m, helping to balance a reported £270m spend on new arrivals, including Wirtz, Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez.
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