Liverpool are in the market for forwards this summer, and they’ve already agreed a £100m deal for Florian Wirtz (which could rise to a British-record £116m)
Liverpool’s Search for Diaz Replacement Intensifies: Rodrygo or Gordon?
Arne Slot’s Liverpool revolution continues to gather pace after securing one of Europe’s most gifted playmakers, Florian Wirtz, in a blockbuster £116m deal. The 22-year-old, who led Bayer Leverkusen to a historic Bundesliga title while claiming the division’s Player of the Year award, has been widely hailed as a “truly generational talent” by respected football analyst Cristian Nyari. Wirtz’s arrival gives Slot a ready-made conductor to dictate play in the final third — particularly significant following Trent Alexander-Arnold’s departure to Real Madrid.
With midfield creativity secured, Liverpool’s attention now turns to the attacking flanks, where the future of Luis Diaz remains uncertain amid ongoing interest from Barcelona and clubs in the Saudi Pro League. Should Diaz depart, the Reds will need a top-class replacement to maintain their attacking depth for next season’s Champions League campaign.
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Anthony Gordon: Familiar Face Under Consideration
Liverpool’s interest in Anthony Gordon has resurfaced after last summer’s fleeting talks. At that time, Newcastle United were open to offloading the 24-year-old winger to navigate PSR (Profit and Sustainability Rules) concerns, but alternative sales helped Newcastle balance the books without sacrificing one of their key stars.
This summer, however, Newcastle might entertain serious offers if their £100m valuation is met. While Liverpool are unlikely to match such a fee outright, Gordon remains on their radar — especially if Diaz is sold.
The question remains whether Gordon, talented as he is, would represent optimal value at that price point. Despite a respectable domestic season, Gordon failed to register a goal involvement in his six Champions League appearances last term, raising questions about his ability to consistently deliver on Europe’s biggest stage.
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Rodrygo: The Marquee Option
Liverpool may instead opt for a more proven performer, with Spanish reports confirming Rodrygo of Real Madrid as a serious alternative. Sources suggest Madrid could part ways with the 23-year-old Brazilian for a fee in the region of €75-90m (£64-77m), especially after a challenging season in which his role became increasingly complicated following the arrival of Kylian Mbappe.
While Vinicius Junior and Mbappe now command Madrid’s left-sided roles, Rodrygo’s versatility — capable of playing across the front three — makes him an extremely attractive proposition for Slot.
Despite interest from other Premier League giants such as Manchester City and Arsenal, Liverpool are reportedly among the frontrunners for the Brazilian’s signature.
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Rodrygo vs Gordon: A Clear Gap in Pedigree
The contrast between the two candidates is stark when it comes to Champions League experience:
Rodrygo: Regular contributor in high-stakes European matches, earning praise from Carlo Ancelotti as a “special striker” who can “play in all positions”.
Gordon: No goal involvements in Europe last season, still awaiting a true breakout on the continental stage.
Furthermore, Rodrygo’s statistics — 6 goals and 6 assists in La Liga — are mirrored by Gordon’s Premier League output, but the Brazilian has consistently delivered against elite opposition across multiple seasons.
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A Statement of Intent
With Wirtz, Frimpong, and Kerkez already secured or close to arrival, Liverpool’s potential pursuit of Rodrygo would serve as a major statement of intent under Arne Slot’s new regime.
The Brazil star would not only soften the blow of Diaz’s potential exit but instantly elevate Liverpool’s European pedigree as they target Champions league glory next season