Liverpool's Luis Diaz move means two can leave

Robin Bairner

• 28 Jan 2022 03:48 CST
• 3 min read

Liverpool’s late move for Porto winger Luis Diaz could have significant implications for the rest of the squad.

The Reds are reportedly willing to pay €45 million for the 25-year-old, with a possible €15m following in bonus payments, which would make him one of the biggest purchases of the January transfer window.

Inevitably, though, such a deal would have consequences elsewhere in the Liverpool squad, with fringe players likely to be shown the door.

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Goal reports that Liverpool have hastened their interest in Diaz, having initially eyed the Colombia international as a summer transfer target. He would provide an additional offensive option to the Reds’ plethora of talent in that sector, with Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Diogo Jota all available.

His versatility is seen as a major asset, while Liverpool believe that there is still much more to come from his game.

Two set to leave

Should Diaz arrive, though, that will edge fringe players Takumi Minamino and Divock Origi towards the exit door.

Neither has been heavily involved for Liverpool this season, and in the case of Origi, he has a contract that expires in June, meaning the next few days are the Reds’ final chance to offload him for a transfer fee.

Both players have interest in them.

Minamino is reportedly wanted by Leeds and Monaco. The 27-year-old has a contract with Liverpool until 2024 but is clearly surplus to requirements, having played just 86 Premier League minutes this season.

Origi, who is presently nursing a knee problem but should be back in early February, has become a target for Newcastle and Atalanta. Like Minamino, he has rarely been in consideration for Liverpool’s big matches this season, having featured in only three Premier League games as a substitute.

Diaz’s arrival, then, would allow Liverpool the leeway to offload both Minamino and Origi without having to concern themselves with a lack of depth.