Wataru Endo Opens Up on Liverpool Future Amid Transfer Speculation Wataru Endo’s Liverpool journey has taken an unexpected turn in recent months. Once a key figure under Jürgen Klopp, the 32-year-old has found opportunities limited during Arne Slot’s title-winning debut season at Anfield. Slot, who guided Liverpool to their first Premier League title since 2020, […]

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Cody Gakpo on Bayern Munich’s Radar: Should Liverpool Fans Be Worried? After a strong campaign at Liverpool, Cody Gakpo’s name is now swirling in the rumour mill, with Bayern Munich emerging as a potential suitor. As revealed by Sky Germany’s reputable journalist Florian Plettenberg, Bayern’s sporting director Max Eberl has earmarked the Dutchman as a […]

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Liverpool’s transfer plans are taking shape, with Virgil van Dijk’s early promise of a “busy summer” looking more accurate by the week.

Jeremie Frimpong’s transfer from Bayer Leverkusen could be announced shortly, while there’s hope that his teammate Florian Wirtz will also end up at Anfield. Meanwhile, Milos Kerkez and Hugo Ekitike have been mentioned as serious possibilities, giving fans plenty to feel optimistic about heading into the summer months.

But those incomings will inevitably lead to departures. That will certainly help in terms of financing transfers, while clearing space in a squad that has typically avoided injuries since Arne Slot ’s arrival feels crucial. There are also several players the Dutchman clearly doesn’t trust.

One inevitable exit is Caoihmin Kelleher. The goalkeeper all but admitted that after the final game of the season, when he again reiterated his desire to be no.1 elsewhere.

According to the Irish Examiner, Brentford, West Ham United, and Leeds United have all enquired about Kelleher. The report adds that the Irishman will be allowed to leave if a sufficient offer is received, with a bid of more than £20 million ($27M) expected to match the Reds’ valuation.

The Liverpool Echo reports a similar price could be needed to extract Kelleher from Anfield, with Brentford in need of a replacement for Mark Flekken, who appears bound for Bayer Leverkusen. Bournemouth and Aston Villa also hold interest in the 26-year-old, but Kelleher is “unlikely to rush a decision”.

Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher is expected to leave this summer. (Image: Getty Images)

Luis Diaz is another player linked with a summer exit. The Colombian played an integral role in Liverpool’s title win and played in 36 of the 38 league matches, but didn’t always hold down his preferred position in the side.

Diaz flitted between a central role and playing off the left. But that versatility is seen as a plus for Barcelona’s Hansi Flick, claims Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo.

It states Flick values players who can operate in multiple positions, something which will inform his transfer policy this summer. Diaz is very much in that category.

Luis Diaz has been linked with a summer move to Barcelona (Image: Getty Images)

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr has identified Diaz as its “top summer transfer target,” a ccording to talkSPORT. The report adds that Liverpool is aware of the club’s interest. However, Liverpool’s no.7 has previously said he will discuss a new contract with the club this summer.

“We’ll be talking about it [about renewing], we’ll talk about it. For me, I’d stay however many years it takes,” he told Colombian news outlet Telemundo Deportes earlier this month.

“It also depends on the club, everything. These are details that are worked out separately. But I’m very calm, happy and enjoying the Premier League.”

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Liverpool is primed to spend at least €200 million ($226 million) this summer to improve a side fresh off cruising to the 2024/25 Premier League title.

The Reds have reportedly activated the €35 million ($40 million) release clause for Bayer Leverkusen right-back Jeremie Frimpong, while a deal for his teammate Florian Wirtz could top €150 million ($169 million). Further, Liverpool is thought to be leading the race for Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez, rumored to cost around £45 million ($61 million).

While the knee-jerk reaction by Richard Hughes and the rest of the transfer hierarchy could be to tell an excess striker, former Manchester United forward Lee Sharpe thinks offloading a title-winning No. 9 "would be harsh."

"I find it difficult to say Liverpool need to offload someone when they’ve just cruised to the Premier League title,” he told Esports Insider.

Sharpe joined Manchester United in 1988 and featured 193 times for the Red Devils, winning three Premier League titles along with a pair of FA Cups and League Cup crowns.

“I’m not even convinced Liverpool are looking at an out-and-out No. 9; they’ve chopped and changed their forward line throughout the season," Sharpe continued.

Nunez didn't have his strongest season in front of goal (Image: Getty Images)

"They’ve got Diogo Jota, Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez who seem to rotate the striker role between them, which keeps the opposition from predicting how they’ll set up. To not have a regular No. 9 might suit Arne Slot for that reason. It would be harsh to look to offload anyone else after the season Liverpool have had.”

Nunez was the subject of a transfer bid from Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal in January, swiftly rejected by Liverpool, with the side still in the transfer race.

The enigmatic Uruguayan forward didn't do much to help the Reds fetch a fee with a poor season in front of goal. The 25-year-old scored seven times across 17 in all competitions for Liverpool this year.

Jota, now 28, also struggled in front of goal this year. After overperforming his 5.3 Premier League xG last year to the tune of 10 goals, the Portuguese international scored just six in 2024/25 from 7.9 xG.

Diaz often moonlit as a No. 9 in the fall with Jota out and Nunez not in Slot's good graces. He managed a hat trick against Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League but didn't produce much else.

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Luis Diaz in Demand: Saudi Interest Could Test Liverpool’s Resolve Liverpool’s Luis Diaz is firmly in the spotlight this summer, with Saudi Arabian giants Al Nassr reportedly targeting the Colombian forward as their top priority in the upcoming transfer window. The talkSPORT exclusive by Alex Crook outlines a potential transfer twist that could disrupt Anfield’s […]

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Liverpool’s Luis Diaz is firmly in the spotlight this summer, with Saudi Arabian giants Al Nassr reportedly targeting the Colombian forward as their top priority in the upcoming transfer window. The talkSPORT exclusive by Alex Crook outlines a potential transfer twist that could disrupt Anfield’s summer plans as Arne Slot looks to retain his Premier League-winning squad.

Diaz’s Value Skyrockets as Summer Window Opens

Luis Diaz’s influence at Liverpool cannot be overstated. In a season that saw Arne Slot guide the Reds to their first Premier League title since 2020, the Colombian international played a pivotal role. Only Mohamed Salah outscored him in 2024/25, highlighting Diaz’s growing importance to Liverpool’s frontline.

Photo: IMAGO

At 28, Diaz still has two years remaining on his current £55,000-per-week contract, which runs until 2027. However, as talkSPORT rightly points out, the winger is “pushing for a new contract at Anfield.” This has opened the door to speculation, and Al Nassr’s interest adds a new layer of complexity to Liverpool’s contract negotiations.

Barcelona Interest Keeps Pressure on Liverpool

While Al Nassr’s emergence is headline-worthy, interest in Diaz is not limited to the Middle East. European heavyweight Barcelona are also in the mix, with sporting director Deco publicly acknowledging their admiration. “They like the forward,” Crook reports, signalling that competition for Diaz’s signature is heating up on multiple fronts.

Barcelona’s well-documented financial issues could make a move difficult, but they remain an alluring prospect for many South American players. Liverpool, aware of their interest, are understandably keen to tie Diaz down to a long-term deal and avoid the uncertainty that plagued other recent contract situations.

Saudi Arabia’s Growing Influence

Saudi clubs have made headlines with high-profile signings in recent years, and their interest in Diaz signifies an ongoing ambition to attract top-tier European talent. Al Nassr’s pursuit comes amid growing questions about Cristiano Ronaldo’s future, with talkSPORT noting that “Nassr’s interest comes at an interesting time, with talisman Cristiano Ronaldo hinting at a potential departure.”

Diaz, in his prime and arguably entering the peak of his career, represents a statement signing for the Saudi Pro League. His explosive pace, direct dribbling and tactical intelligence make him an attractive proposition for a league intent on raising its global profile.

Photo: IMAGO Liverpool Face a Crucial Summer Decision

Liverpool’s challenge now lies in balancing player ambition, financial prudence, and team cohesion. With Diaz reportedly keen on a new deal and his market value holding strong, this summer could mark a defining moment in his Anfield career.

The club’s strategy, under the fresh guidance of Arne Slot, will need to be proactive. Allowing a key player to enter the final two years of his deal without resolution invites unwelcome transfer speculation. Given his contributions to the title-winning campaign, it would be surprising if Liverpool did not act swiftly to secure his services.

Crook writes: “Liverpool are aware of Al Nassr’s interest in the Colombian, who has been pushing for a new contract at Anfield.” That awareness must now translate into action.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool supporters, the idea of losing Luis Diaz now feels untimely, even jarring. His energy, flair, and commitment on the left flank have made him a fan favourite. While Salah continues to deliver, Diaz has emerged as a key attacking force, and with Jurgen Klopp’s era having closed just this past May, there’s an expectation that the club will preserve continuity under Slot rather than invite disruption.

Slot, who has made an immediate impact by clinching the league title in his debut season, will likely want Diaz central to his plans going forward. Letting him go would send the wrong signal about the club’s direction and ambition.

While a move to Saudi Arabia may appeal financially to the player, it would mark a significant step down in competitive terms. Diaz is a Champions League-calibre player, and his best years should be played under the European spotlight, not away from it. For many Liverpool fans, ensuring he remains at Anfield is about more than loyalty – it’s a footballing necessity.

The club must also consider the broader optics. Losing a top performer to a non-European league, especially in a summer when Liverpool are looking to build rather than rebuild, could create unnecessary headlines and damage squad morale.

It’s time for the Liverpool board to act decisively. Secure Diaz’s future. Reward his performances. Protect the core of this title-winning side.

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Ryan Gravenberch will not miss the Community Shield due to the red card he received on the final day of the Premier League season. Instead, the midfielder’s suspension will carry over to the start of the new league campaign in August.

It means Gravenberch, who played 49 games this term, will be eligible for the annual curtain raiser when Liverpool takes on Crystal Palace in the Community Shield.

The date for that match has not been set but it will be played at Wembley on the weekend of August 9-10. The new Premier League season will start the following week, with the initial fixture list to be released on June 18.

Gravenberch, therefore, won’t be involved when Liverpool begins the defense of its title. The midfielder was shown a straight red card in the 68th minute of the Reds’ final match of the season, also against Palace.

Having miscontrolled the ball as Liverpool’s last man back, Gravenberch lunged to regain possession but instead felled Daichi Kamada with the Palace man set to have a clear run at goal.

Referee Darren England had little choice but to administer a straight red card despite teammate Virgil van Dijk's remonstrations.

It meant a disappointing end to what was a fantastic season for Gravenberch, who won the Premier League Young Player of the Year Award.

Ryan Gravenberch enjoyed a superb season under Arne Slot (Image: Getty Images)

The 23-year-old started 37 of the 38 league games, the exception being the trip to Chelsea immediately after Liverpool was crowned champion.

He is also likely to be selected in the PFA Premier League Team of the Season.

Gravenberch’s transformation into a holding midfielder proved to be integral to Liverpool’s successful campaign, especially after missing out on Martin Zubimendi the previous summer.

Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch formed an impressive bond in midfield. (Image: Getty Images)

The Dutchman’s impressive displays, flanked alongside Alexis Mac Allister were instrumental in Liverpool amassing such a huge lead at the top of the table heading into the spring months.

“During a phone call in the first conversation I had with Arne, he said to me: 'I see you as a No.8 but I want to try you as a No.6'," Gravenberch told The Athletic in a recent interview.

"I played there against Manchester United in pre-season and after that game, he just put me there. I was like: 'OK, let’s do it'. From that moment, I only played as a No.6.

"I didn’t play a lot in that position before but this season, that position has made me who I am now. I am not naturally a defensive midfielder. I also like to drive forward with the ball. It’s been good so far."

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Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images

A loss Thursday would be a devasting blow in an already frustrating 2024/25.

As is the case for any (sobs) 14th-place team, Tottenham Hotspur's season hinges on competitions outside the Premier League. A bye into the Europa League Round of 16 keeps that avenue open, and the FA Cup remains a possibility as well, but the most immediate and realistic path to silverware is the League Cup. Yes, the road is brutal, with a trip to Anfield before a final against Newcastle, but only 180 minutes separate Spurs from ending their long-standing trophy drought.

That makes Thursday the biggest match of the season so far. Tottenham impressed in the semifinal's first leg, grinding out a 1-0 win despite ceding possession, absorbing pressure, and deploying a makeshift backline. Now, the battle shifts to Liverpool, where the country's best team will be confident in its ability to overcome a one-goal deficit. Spurs enter as clear underdogs but must find a way to advance.

Semifinals (2nd Leg): Liverpool (0) vs. Tottenham Hotspur (1)

Date: Thursday, February 6
Time: 3:00 pm ET, 8:00 pm UK
Location: Anfield Stadium, Liverpool
TV: Paramount+ (USA), Sky Sports Main Event (UK)

Since the first leg, Liverpool has gone 5-1-1, with the lone defeat coming in a meaningless Champions League contest with a rotated lineup. With a Premier League title in sight and a strong European campaign underway, one might assume this competition sits lower on the priority list. Unfortunately for Spurs, there are no significant matches on Liverpool's immediate horizon, meaning Arne Slot is likely to field a strong XI at Anfield.

Both teams were relatively cautious in North London, though for different reasons. Tottenham's approach was shaped by a defense missing three of its four preferred starters, alongside a newly introduced Antonin Kinsky. Ange Postecoglou now has the opportunity of choosing from options like Kevin Danso and Mathys Tel, though plenty of important names like Micky van de Ven remain injured.

For Liverpool, the decision to play pragmatically was likely strategic — returning home with just a one-goal deficit seemed an acceptable trade-off. Having made that decision, Slot's side will now bring intensity reminiscent of December's league fixture. Players like Luis Diaz, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Dominik Szoboszlai were all absent from the first leg's starting lineup, but may be called upon Thursday with the objective more clear.

A few moments of greatness

Tottenham will not see much of the ball at Anfield. Liverpool will dominate possession, generate the bulk of the chances, and apply relentless pressure in Spurs' defensive third. That is a daunting prospect for cobbled-together squad; the number one priority is minimizing mistakes, especially with a lead to protect.

That said, Spurs must be willing to attack when opportunities arise and will not need much possession to be dangerous. Both Dominic Solanke's narrowly disallowed goal and Lucas Bergvall's successful strike in the first leg came via direct play over the top. Exploiting Liverpool's high press with quick, vertical attacks could be Tottenham's best path to maintaining the advantage.

If Spurs can capitalize on a pressing opponent and snatch an insurance goal, the tie will come down to their ability to weather the inevitable storm. Recent form does not inspire much confidence in their defensive resilience, but Tottenham has produced surprising performances against top teams this season. Postecoglou will need another one to keep his second-season trophy promise alive.

Liverpool fans will have seen the social media stories circling that both Mo Salah and Virgil van Dijk signing a new contract, something Arne Slot was asked to comment on.

Speaking (via 90min.com), our head coach said: "We have some contractual situations that you don't probably don't know about.

"But Trent, Mo and Virgil haven't extended yet. So we are aware of the fact that we have to be sharp and ready for things that can happen.

"My life is mainly short term but we have so many quality people at this club that look at the longer term as well.

"You always have to be prepared for all the new things coming up.

"The players that don't play a big part at the moment; will they be able to do this another year? Will they fight for their place or will they [want to] go somewhere else?

"So we have to be prepared for the next window and what we can do."

The Dutchman doesn't really like to provide a direct answer on these topics, as it's not something he's directly involved in and prefers to allow time to pass.

However, confirmation that contracts have not been signed is a clear indication of the current situation and does debunk Robbie Fowler's theory.

Salah, Van Dijk and Trent have not yet signed a new contract Pictures via @MoSalah on X

John Barnes has stated that if he were in charge of the new deals, he would select our captain as the most important of the trio.

Many fans have their own opinions as to who they would or wouldn't allow to leave the club but it does feel that the overwhelming majority want all three to commit their future to staying on Merseyside.

You would assume the club can afford to do this but whether the financial model allows it is another question.

It's the same situation we've been in all campaign but we can take from this that no deals have yet been signed and it doesn't feel like we're close to them being done either.

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Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold are all out of contract in the summer, with Liverpool at risk of losing all three of their stars for nothing

Liverpool are set to face Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg tonight.

The Reds lost the away first leg 1-0 controversially courtesy of Lucas Bergvall's late goal but he really should’ve been sent off earlier.

Newcastle United have reached the final by beating Arsenal in the other semi-final so the winner of this tie will take on the Magpies at Wembley on 16th March.

As per team news, Joe Gomez and Diogo Jota have returned to full fitness after recovering from their injury problems but Trent Alexander-Arnold has sustained an issue since featuring against the Cherries. So, he has been ruled out.

Predicted Liverpool lineup vs Tottenham

Caoimhin Kelleher has been playing in the cup competitions but Alisson Becker started in the previous leg at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and the Brazilian may continue in goal for the hosts tonight.

Jarell Quansah has started all the Carabao Cup matches thus far this season but considering the importance of the fixture tonight, Ibrahima Konate is expected to be called upon to feature alongside Virgil van Dijk in the CB position.

Conor Bradley would replace injured Alexander-Arnold and Kostas Tsimikas might get the nod to start in the left-back position ahead of Andy Robertson.

Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister are likely to continue in the engine room with Dominik Szoboszlai in the CAM role. Therefore, Wataru Endo and Curtis Jones could be among the substitutes.

Cody Gakpo has also played all the League Cup games and should continue in his preferred left-wing position, while Mohamed Salah would be on the opposite side.

Luis Diaz may start again in the CF role, therefore, Darwin Nunez and Jota could feature off the bench if needed. Here is how Liverpool could line up vs Tottenham:

The post 4-2-3-1: How Liverpool could line up against Tottenham – Carabao Cup appeared first on Paisley Gates.

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