Liverpool Transfer News: Reds to replace Martin Zubimendi as decision made on £50m offer
Here's all the latest Liverpool FC transfer news for Monday, December 30.
Richard Hughes thriving as Liverpool replace Martin Zubimendi and save £20m
Liverpool's defensive midfield woes have been well-documented and for a while, it looked as though the team would never find a solution.
However, upon Arne Slot's arrival on Merseyside this summer, Ryan Gravenberch was given the nod and the Reds have hardly looked back since.
The Dutchman's promotion was the result of Martin Zubimendi's dismissal of Liverpool's offer and there is now an argument among fans that because the Spaniard has not been missed, Liverpool are no longer in need of strengthening in the position.
However, Anfield Watch understands that Liverpool are considering alternatives to Zubimendi in the transfer market, and one such has now been rumoured of a move that would enable the club to save £20m in the process.
Bilal El Khannouss earns Liverpool guarantee right in front of Arne Slot
Liverpool are not a club to sit on their laurels when they are on top.
Despite the team's remarkable first half of the season, the squad may be missing a few finishing touches.
The club's current approach to the transfer market falls under Richard Hughes' rhetoric regarding 'opportunistic' transfers - essentially, working with the players you have available while also being willing to strike while the iron's hot if the right move becomes available.
The perfect example came in the form of Federico Chiesa's summer transfer to the club for around £15m. His injury record was poor, but he was a known world-class asset in need of a chance to rejuvenate his career.
Now that the season has started, Liverpool are quietly working behind the scenes to ensure that Arne Slot receives all the assistance he needs to ensure the club is successful this season in their hunt for silverware.
Federico Chiesa decision imminent as approach CONFIRMED
Liverpool fans can feel disheartened by the overall business of the summer transfer window.
Failing to secure Martin Zubimendi to fill the defensive midfield void was inexcusable and for a club of Liverpool's magnitude, it was almost embarrassing.
There was light at the end of the tunnel for Reds supporters with the signing of Federico Chiesa for the low price of €10 million - a steal for a player once considered to be worth €100 million after his heroics during the Euros in 2021.
But all of Liverpool's hopes and dreams for Chiesa are now nothing but a pipedream, as his move has been hindered by injuries throughout, and a new report suggests that the Italian could be on his way out, just five months after landing on Merseyside.
Liverpool lay down the law to Luis Diaz after contract talks fail
Liverpool have laid down the law to Luis Diaz in the wake of failed contract talks. The Colombian wants a move.
What an interesting season for Luis Diaz. He started the campaign on fire, scoring every week, before going through a bit of a dry spell.
But last week, he terrorised Tottenham Hotspur in a Player of the Match performance, typical of his spell at Liverpool so far - inconsistent, but brilliant when he's at his best.
In turn, his form over the last two years makes it clear why he remains on his initial deal at the club. His wage remains on the low end of the scale as a result of his failure to break through as a standout player. Contract talks have subsequently failed according to reports and now his future is in doubt.
Reds want to replace Darwin Nunez with former Man City star
Liverpool fans wanted the signing of Darwin Nunez to work out so badly.
Since signing for the Reds in 2022, his contribution has unfortunately been minimal, showing glimpses of his talent in certain weeks, but his downfalls and poor performances are what regularly comes to mind.
He is not the out-and-out clinical striker the Reds were hoping he would be. He is too erratic in front of goal and doesn’t provide an extensive threat as a lone striker.
The recruitment team therefore may need to look elsewhere and one player who has caught the imagination of all Premier League fans could be a welcome option.
Decision MADE on £50m plus player offer for Luis Diaz
The Liverpool frontline is littered with talent.
From the goalscoring abilities of Diogo Jota to the all round brilliance of Mohamad Salah, fans have been blessed with attacking quality which is so easy on the eye.
One player who has contributed to this significantly is Luis Diaz, and a European club has been linked with an audacious move for the Colombian.