Report: Arne Slot wants ‘amazing’ exit-linked Liverpool player to be part of pre-season

Liverpool have a huge summer ahead, with the Reds set to be eager to usher in a new era of success as quickly as possible.

Legendary manager Jurgen Klopp has departed, with Arne Slot entrusted with taking over the huge job at Anfield.

The Dutchman would be wise to follow a similar approach to the German given the latter’s success over the years.

But the former will also have his own ideas and ambitions at his new club. He has, however, already been warned by former Premier League striker Darren Bent not to change everything at Anfield.

But one area that he will be keen to have a big say on is transfers, with movement expected in both directions this summer.

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Arne Slot has Luis Diaz plan amid Liverpool exit talk

One Reds player that has dominated the transfer talk lately is Luis Diaz, with the winger’s future on Merseyside uncertain.

The Athletic reports that Spanish giants Barcelona admire the Colombian, who Gary Neville once labelled ‘absolutely amazing’, but no approach has been made yet.

READ MORE: Liverpool’s most expensive/record transfer fees

The publication added that Slot and his new side are still planning for the attacker to be part of their pre-season this summer, while also noting that a deal may not be possible for Barcelona anyway given their financial issues.

Liverpool signed Diaz from Porto in January 2022 in a £50million deal, with his contract not expiring until 2027.

Liverpool should not let Luis Diaz leave Anfield

Diaz has become a big hit on Merseyside, with fans enjoying his skill, pace and direct running down the wing.

He has, however, often struggled with his end product, with the Colombian not the most clinical finisher in the world.

READ MORE: All of Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool signings ranked

But losing him would be a huge blow, with Slot foolish to sanction such an exit in his first transfer window at Liverpool.

The new manager needs all the help he can get in his early time at the club, and a talented player such as Diaz will be key to achieving success.

Barcelona are seemingly keen on a move for the attacker this summer, with a swap deal involving their winger Raphinha potentially on the cards.

But the Reds should definitely opt for Diaz over the former Leeds United man should that opportunity arise in the transfer window.