Atletico Madrid Eyeing Luis Diaz
Spanish news outlet Fichajes has reported that Atletico Madrid are keen on signing Liverpool’s attacker Luis Diaz in the upcoming summer transfer window. If Liverpool decides to part ways with the Colombian forward, they are expected to demand a hefty fee of €60-70 million. This sizable sum reflects Diaz’s talent and market value, as well as the club’s reluctance to let him go without significant compensation.
Luis Diaz: A Mixed Bag of Performance
Luis Diaz has been a standout player for Liverpool, but his performance this season has been somewhat inconsistent. In the Premier League 2024/2025 season, Diaz has managed to score 9 goals in 27 matches, contributing a goals-per-90-minutes rate of 0.46. His total goal and assist (G/A) tally stands at 12 for the season, averaging 0.61 per 90 minutes. His non-penalty expected goals (npxG) per 90 minutes is 0.46, leading to a total npxG of 8.69. These statistics suggest that while Diaz is capable of contributing significantly, his impact has not been as consistent as Liverpool might have hoped.
Technical and Tactical Analysis
Diaz’s technical abilities are well-documented. He averages 29.57 passes per game with a pass completion rate of 85.35%, and he delivers 1.50 key passes each game. His expected assists (xA) output is 0.17 per 90 minutes. On the pitch, Diaz’s dominance on the left flank is evident. His blistering pace and agile dribbling skills allow him to dismantle defenses regularly. He is particularly effective at driving at opponents and cutting inside to unleash powerful shots with either foot. Diaz’s pressing ability is also noteworthy, as he relentlessly harries defenders to regain possession. His high work rate benefits both the attack and defense, while his flair and unpredictability, showcased through stepovers and quick turns, make him a constant threat.
Atletico Madrid’s Motivation
Under the management of Diego Simeone, Atletico Madrid has adopted a more attacking approach this season. The club is looking to bolster its offensive lineup to compete with the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid for the La Liga title. South American players, in general, have a preference for playing in the Spanish League, and Diaz’s performance in the Premier League has solidified his reputation as a top-tier talent. Atletico Madrid sees him as a potential key player who can enhance their attacking capabilities and provide the kind of flair and creativity they need to challenge for domestic and European honors.
Should Liverpool Let Him Go?
The decision to sell Luis Diaz is a complex one for Liverpool. On one hand, his inconsistent performance this season and the potential €60-70 million fee make him an attractive asset to offload. The money could be reinvested in the squad, especially if Mohamed Salah, another key attacker, leaves for free in the summer. Liverpool would need to strengthen their attacking department to maintain their competitive edge, and the funds from Diaz’s sale could provide a significant boost.
On the other hand, Diaz’s skills and potential make him a valuable player for the team. His directness, pressing ability, and technical proficiency add a unique dimension to Liverpool’s attack. Losing him could weaken the squad’s depth and versatility, potentially affecting their performance in the Premier League and European competitions. The club will have to weigh the immediate financial benefits against the long-term impact on their squad and overall strategy.
The Summer Transfer Window Elephant in the Room
Ultimately, the summer transfer window will reveal whether Liverpool decides to let Diaz leave Anfield. The club’s management will need to assess their options carefully, considering the financial implications and the potential impact on the team’s performance. While the €60-70 million fee is certainly tempting, the decision to sell will hinge on whether Liverpool believes they can adequately replace Diaz’s unique contributions and maintain their competitive edge in the Premier League and beyond.
