Liverpool looking to replace Luis Diaz with €90m Real Madrid forward

Liverpool are weighing up a bold move to secure Rodrygo from Real Madrid as a potential replacement for Luis Diaz, according to a report by L’Équipe.

With a major summer reshuffle already underway at Anfield and the tragic loss of Diogo Jota still fresh, Arne Slot is planning his next attacking setup, and it may feature one of La Liga’s most valuable wingers.

Should Luis Diaz leave the club amidst links to Bayern Munich, Real Madrid’s Rodrygo is expected to be Liverpool’s top target to fill the gap on the left wing.

That’s according to L’Équipe, who wrote that the Brazilian international would “without a doubt” replace the Colombian forward if a transfer materialised. The 24-year-old winger, valued at around €90 million, is highly rated for his pace, versatility, and Champions League pedigree.

While Diaz remains a key player at Anfield, speculation over his future has intensified in recent months, prompting Liverpool to identify potential successors early.

Rodrygo fits the bill not only in terms of profile but also in experience, having played and won at the very highest level with Real Madrid.

The interest is understood to be serious, although no deal is imminent. The situation hinges largely on whether Diaz stays put or is tempted away this summer.

Beyond the Rodrygo pursuit, Liverpool are also gearing up to welcome another attacking talent, Hugo Ekitiké. The 23-year-old French forward is reportedly on his way to Anfield from Eintracht Frankfurt, and head coach Arne Slot is believed to be a strong admirer of his potential.

According to L’Équipe, Slot sees Ekitiké as a future world-class centre-forward if his development continues at its current pace. While the Dutchman acknowledges that Ekitiké still needs to polish his finishing, he greatly values the striker’s intelligence, selflessness, and ability to combine with others.

Ekitike’s heading ability, in particular, could bring a new dimension to Liverpool’s frontline. The Reds only managed twelve headed goals last season, and nearly half of them came from centre-back Virgil van Dijk.

Ekitiké’s aerial presence could therefore be an asset in key moments. With the likes of Cody Gakpo, Mohamed Salah, Florian Wirtz, and potentially Rodrygo all in the mix, Liverpool are stacking attacking options.