Liverpool are undergoing a significant overhaul under new manager Andoni Iraola, with Mohamed Salah having departed as a free agent and the club actively pursuing deals for RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande and a potential return for Darwin Nunez. The changes come after a disappointing title defence that led to the dismissal of Arne Slot and the appointment of Iraola on a two-year contract.
Several players have already left Anfield, including Andy Robertson, Ibrahima Konate, and Rhys Williams, all as free agents. Liverpool have also agreed to allow Under-21s defender Carter Pinnington to join West Brom, with the deal including add-ons and a sell-on clause. Inter Milan are reportedly preparing an improved bid for midfielder Curtis Jones.
According to The Athletic’s James Pearce, Liverpool’s priority in the summer transfer window is to sign a new wide player to fill the void left by Salah’s departure. Diomande has been identified as their top target, but RB Leipzig are reportedly demanding a fee in excess of €130 million (£112.3m) following the player’s strong performance at the recent World Cup. Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola is also under consideration.
Interestingly, Pearce also reports Liverpool’s interest in bringing Darwin Nunez back to Anfield after a spell with Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia, though he dismisses suggestions that a deal has already been agreed. Nunez initially joined Liverpool in 2022, but struggled for consistent form before his loan move.
Pearce definitively stated there is “no chance” of Salah reversing his decision to leave, confirming that all parties agreed it was the right time for a change. The Egyptian initiated talks in March regarding the termination of the final year of his contract. Federico Chiesa, previously linked with a move to Liverpool, is expected to hold talks with Iraola to determine his role in the new manager’s plans. Diomande’s international coach has indicated a deal with Liverpool is close, stating he has heard “he’s signing for Liverpool”.
The club is aiming to rebuild its attack following a season where they struggled to consistently find the back of the net, and these signings represent a clear attempt to inject pace and creativity into the forward line. Securing Diomande would be a statement signing, while Nunez’s return could offer a familiar option with a point to prove.
