“I have always felt that he’s over-hyped and now that this deal has come for him, it’s a good opportunity to get rid of him and get a better and younger player” – Barcelona proposes a high-profile swap deal to Liverpool as Arne Slot mulls over dropping one of Jurgen Klopp’s favored players.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot faces his first major decision amid reports that Barcelona are proposing a straight swap deal involving Luis Diaz and one of their unwanted players this summer.

 

Slot is ushering in a new era at Anfield after succeeding Jurgen Klopp, who has stepped away for a long sabbatical.

With Klopp now taking a break at his villa in Majorca, Slot is focused on maintaining and building upon the success Klopp achieved.

 

Significant changes to the squad are expected, with Slot likely having his own vision for the team.

Indications of his approach are already evident as Klopp favorites Joel Matip and Thiago Alcantara have been released at the end of their contracts.

 

TEAMtalk reports that Slot has a substantial transfer budget and is prioritizing a left-sided center-back and a defensive midfielder, along with seeking a new goalkeeper due to Adrian’s departure and offers for Caoimhin Kelleher.

 

The biggest potential departure is Luis Diaz, now a top target for Barcelona. Following a second-place finish in La Liga and a Champions League exit, Barcelona has turned their attention to Diaz.

Sporting director Deco has shifted the focus from Nico Williams to Diaz, and Barcelona is reportedly ready to offer a swap deal involving Raphinha.

 

Raphinha joined Barcelona in 2022 for £58m but has not fully settled at the club, and with the emergence of 16-year-old talent Lamine Yamal, Raphinha’s position is uncertain.

 

Slot will have to decide if the swap deal benefits Liverpool. Diaz has struggled with injuries and personal issues since his £37.5m move to Anfield in January 2022, scoring 24 goals in 98 appearances.

His father has expressed a desire for Diaz to join a La Liga giant, and reports suggest Diaz would be open to a Barcelona move.

 

If the swap deal goes through, it could be Slot’s first significant transfer decision at Liverpool.