Liverpool linked with swapping Luis Diaz for AC Milan ace Luis Diaz

In a shocking development, Liverpool apparently want to sign AC Milan winger Rafael Leao and are ready to part ways with Colombian maestro Luis Diaz in a swap deal for the 23-year-old Portuguese international.

Italian outlet Calciomercato (h/t Liverpool Echo) claims that the departure of Leao from the Italian football club seems imminent as he is getting ‘ever closer’ to leaving. This speculation arises from the fact that his current contract with the team is due to expire in 2024 (Transfermarkt).

Even though the report also suggests that Milan only want a cash deal of between €120m and €150m for their star man, the astonishing claim that Liverpool are ready to part ways with Lucho comes as a significant surprise. Diaz is one of the Reds’ best players and it is crazy to think that he could be on his way out after no more than just a single season of football at Merseyside.

Liverpool linked with swapping Luis Diaz for AC Milan ace Luis Diaz. — Rafael Leao is a star at AC Milan and his contract expires in the summer of 2024. (Photo by MIGUEL MEDINA/AFP via Getty Images)

While this may seem like an attractive proposition for a few Liverpool fans, the Reds need to take their minds off this deal and focus on strengthening their midfield instead. Furthermore, parting ways with Diaz could potentially be one of the worst decisions ever, even in the case Leao joins the Reds.

Is it worth swapping Diaz for Leao?

While the prospect of signing Leao is tempting, it should not come at the expense of losing Lucho. The Colombian winger has been in fine form whenever available this season, scoring important goals for the Reds and providing a constant threat going forward.

It is also worth noting that Leao has not been in the best of form after the World Cup as he has only four goal contributions across all competitions since the season resumed after the break in Qatar.

However, Leao’s form is secondary and getting him on board for Lucho is something that the author cannot possibly think of given the Colombian’s importance to the team. Diaz when out of injury has been one of Liverpool’s standout players this season, and his departure would be a huge loss for the club.

Moreover, parting ways with Diaz could be one of the worst decisions ever for Liverpool, even if Leao does join the Reds. Diaz has shown his worth in the Premier League, adapting quickly to the demands of English football. Losing a player of his calibre would be a huge blow to the club, both in the short and long term.

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Liverpool should focus on other potential targets to strengthen their midfield and keep hold of Diaz, who has the potential to become one of the best wingers in the world and losing him even in case prime Lionel Messi is something the Reds should clearly put thought into before taking any decision.