In a predictable turn of events, Liverpool have turned their attention to Al-Ittihad’s Moussa Diaby to replace Mohamed Salah next season.
If Salah is to leave Liverpool, the Saudi Pro League feels like the likely destination.
Back in January, Rousing The Kop suggested that Liverpool should pursue Diaby after it emerged that Al-Ittihad were tipped to sign Salah.
Now, a new report from Germany claims the Reds are in the mix for the former Aston Villa star, who is keen on a return to Europe.
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Liverpool’s winger search has been a topic of conversation for much of the season.
Yan Diomande is a top Liverpool target, but he would command a fee close to £90 million. Diaby is a much more budget-friendly option, who has proven himself in the Premier League.
A report from Fussball Daten has Liverpool firmly in the mix for the Frenchman, who is also being looked at by Newcastle, Spurs, Chelsea, Atletico Madrid, RB Leipzig and Borussia Dortmund.
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And there’s a good reason for the widespread interest.
Al-Ittihad are ‘ready to give the green light’ if an offer comes in at around £35 million. It’s not like Diaby has been poor for the Saudi side. In fact, he registered an impressive 14 league assists in his debut season in the SPL.
With Liverpool stacked at striker, a playmaker type winger could be exactly what Arne Slot needs. And there’s another reason why this deal just makes sense.
Liverpool and Al-Ittihad can arrange a win-win swap deal with Mo Salah
The logic for a swap deal is reinforced by the fact that Al-Ittihad have already made multiple inquiries for Salah.
With the Egyptian entering the final stages of his career and the Saudi Pro League desperate for a global figurehead, the timing is perfect.
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For Liverpool, securing a proven Premier League talent like Diaby for a cut-price £35 million—effectively offset by Salah’s departure—allows FSG to reinvest heavily elsewhere.
It solves the Salah successor dilemma while providing Al-Ittihad with their primary target. And I’m not just saying that because I suggested this swap two months ago.
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