Arne Slot Addresses Reports of Luis Diaz’s Move to Manchester City from Liverpool

Arne Slot Addresses Luis Diaz Transfer Rumors and Defends Liverpool’s Transfer Strategy

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has responded to recent speculation linking Luis Diaz with a move to Manchester City. Reports from El Chiringuito suggested that Diaz has agreed to a five-year contract with City, with the Premier League champions reportedly prepared to pay €70 million (£59.8m) for the Colombian winger. However, Liverpool sources have denied receiving any formal approach for the player.

Slot, who took over from Jurgen Klopp at Anfield this summer, addressed the transfer rumors at a press conference. “When I walked in, the whole day is about talking about football, so it’s no surprise I hear speculation about Diaz,” Slot said. “Is there anyone we don’t talk about? His future is with us. I like a lot of what I saw. He has had a big impact on Liverpool and I hope he has one for the coming season.”

In addition to addressing the Diaz speculation, Slot defended Liverpool’s sporting director Richard Hughes, who has faced criticism from fans regarding recent transfer dealings. Slot commented on Martin Zubimendi’s decision to turn down Liverpool, saying, “I said many times already our squad is really strong so it is not easy to find players to strengthen. Zubimendi was one but he chose not to come here so we go forward with the ones we have. We’re in a good place and Richard is trying to improve the squad in the background. We kept the same team but lost Thiago, Joel, and Adrian and you always talk about transfers but we have a positive team already.”

Liverpool will kick off their 2024-25 Premier League season with an away game against promoted Ipswich Town on Saturday. Slot expressed confidence ahead of the match, noting, “We have seen their games from last season and pre-season. It is true a promoted club has a lot of positivity. They are looking forward to it, but so are we.”