Arne Slot Cody Gakpo Liverpool 2024-25
© IMAGO - Arne Slot Cody Gakpo Liverpool 2024-25
Luis Diaz could be among the players to make way at Liverpool next season. The Colombia international has a contract until 2027 but the club remain at a standstill with Diaz’s representatives over the terms of a new deal.
Instead of losing him for free a couple of years from now,it’s been suggested that the 28-year-old could move on this summer instead.
READ MORE:Torres set for return as Richard Hughes opens talks
Any deal for Diaz would be highly lucrative for Liverpool, withBarcelona quoted between €120 million to €140m in preliminary negotiations.
Of course, these days the club are not likely to fetch quite that much but it would certainly help bank some money which could be spent on incoming transfers.
READ MORE: Liverpool move EVEN closer to signing Alexander Isak
It also opens up a space in Arne Slot’s attack which, according to reports, could be filled by one of the head coach’s old Feyenoord favourites.
Paixao addresses Liverpool reports
Back in January it was reported that Liverpool staff were left impressed by Igor Paixao, a 24-year-old Brazilian forward at Feyenoord.
Paixao, who signed for the Rotterdam side in 2022 for around €4.5 million from Coritiba, won the Eredivisie under Slot in 2023 and added the KNVB Beker (Dutch cup) last season - scoring the only goal in the final.
This season he has scored 12 goals and provided 11 assists in 27 Dutch top-flight matches. He has also scored twice and made four assists in the Champions League.
Paixao enjoyed a close relationship with Slot, wishing him well on his departure for Liverpool and addressing speculation that he could follow his boss to Anfield.
READ MORE:Star confirms Liverpool decision with new 5-year contract
“I only see this on social media,” he told Globo Esporte. “(The fans) don't want me to leave Feyenoord, but it doesn't depend on me. Together with my agents and the board of directors we will decide the best path to follow.
“A lot of people are always tagging me and asking: are you going to Liverpool? I don’t know anything, I’m just waiting. But Dutch football is really cool. The intensity is what makes it different.”
Of working Slot he said: "He also helped me when I arrived, in my development, and I felt like I was helping him.
“It's good that everything worked out. He did an exceptional job with our squad. I just have to thank him and wish him success at Liverpool. He will be missed, but he has to keep working."
Is Igor Paixao better than Gakpo?
The winger is under contract until 2029, having renewed his deal in November, and is expected to earn Feyenoord around €35m to €40m if he is sold next summer.
Napoli and Roma have also been mentioned as potential destinations but the Slot link-up could play into Liverpool’s hands.
Indeed now it’s been claimed by former Feyenoord coach Rob Jacobs that Paixao is already BETTER than Cody Gakpo -one of Slot’s favourite players at Liverpool.
READ MORE:Richard Hughes ready to strike €40m deal to replace Diogo Jota at Liverpool
"I really think he makes Liverpool better,” the coach told Rijnmond. “Arne Slot must also be enjoying his development, right? Gakpo is of course a fantastic player, but Paixao is just a little bit better.
“It wouldn't surprise me if Liverpool were to report to Feyenoord. Man, €40m or €50? They don't make a fuss about that in England. If Feyenoord is smart, they will let him go. They can now ask the highest price.
“He is getting better every day. Incredibly focused, he is the most dangerous man at Feyenoord."
Liverpool transfer news today:Reds gifted BRILLIANT Liam Delap deal as star confirms his decision
Other Premier League clubs reported to be keen on Paixao are Arsenal, Tottenham, Aston Villa, Tottenham and West Ham.