Huge fan Instead of Rodrygo, Richard Hughes wants Liverpool to sign a £100 million winger to replace Luis Diaz.

Liverpool may have won the Premier League title last season, but the club’s ambitions don’t stop there. 

With major plans for a summer rebuild, the Reds are continuing to shake up their squad—and this time, attention is shifting to the left wing.

Luis Diaz's possible exit has sparked a search for a top-class replacement, and according to several reports, sporting director Richard Hughes is casting a wide net. 

Two big names are on Liverpool's radar: Real Madrid's Rodrygo and PSG's exciting winger Bradley Barcola.

Diaz Exit Imminent: Bayern Pushing Hard

One of the biggest catalysts for Liverpool’s left-wing search is Luis Diaz’s growing desire to leave Anfield. 

The Colombian international has reportedly told the club he wants to join Bayern Munich.

Talks between Liverpool and Bayern are already at an advanced stage. 

Bayern’s initial offer was turned down, but they are now believed to be entering a “decisive” phase of negotiations to get their man. 

With Diaz edging closer to the Bundesliga giants, Liverpool are preparing for life without him.

Rodrygo or Barcola? Liverpool’s Two-Man Wish List

So who will replace Diaz?

According to transfer expert Rudy Galetti, Liverpool have made Real Madrid’s Rodrygo a top target. 

The Brazilian forward is admired for his versatility—he can play across the front line—and for his experience, having already won La Liga three times and the Champions League twice at just 23 years old.

But Real Madrid are not willing to let him go cheaply. Sources say the Spanish club are demanding over €90 million (£78m / $105m), and add-ons could push the deal even higher.

Still, the interest is very real. ESPN has confirmed Liverpool’s pursuit of Rodrygo, noting that his profile fits exactly what the Premier League champions are looking for: pace, creativity, and experience on the biggest stage.

However, Liverpool’s top priority is reportedly Bradley Barcola of Paris Saint-Germain.

Richard Hughes Pushing Hard for Barcola

Richard Hughes, Liverpool’s newly-appointed sporting director, is said to be a huge admirer of Barcola. 

The 22-year-old French international was outstanding for PSG last season, scoring 21 goals and providing 21 assists in just 64 appearances.

He predominantly played on the left wing—the same position Diaz would vacate.

Hughes is eager to bring Barcola to Anfield and has reportedly been working behind the scenes to make it happen. But there’s a big obstacle in the way: PSG doesn’t want to sell.

French outlets claim Barcola is keen to stay in Paris, and PSG are in no mood to cash in on one of their brightest young stars.

Liverpool’s interest in Barcola actually dates back to early June, when British reports said they were ready to offer £100 million for him. 

Still, unless the player pushes for a move himself, this could be a tough deal to close.

Arsenal Could Help Liverpool in Rodrygo Chase

While Liverpool weigh up their options, they may benefit from an unexpected assist—from Premier League rivals Arsenal.

Journalist Ben Jacobs has revealed that Arsenal are also interested in Rodrygo, but they’re unlikely to go all-in unless they offload one of their own wingers. Leandro Trossard or Gabriel Martinelli would need to be sold to make space—and raise funds.

Even then, Arsenal would need to navigate the high price tag and hefty wage demands. 

Rodrygo's salary, plus significant agent fees, make the overall deal complex. Liverpool, by contrast, seem more willing to pay what it takes, especially with funds potentially freed up from Diaz’s sale.

Hughes and Slot Not Done Yet

Liverpool's transfer activity this summer has been nothing short of aggressive. The club has already spent close to £300 million, bringing in stars like Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, and Jeremie Frimpong.

But Arne Slot and Richard Hughes are determined to keep strengthening the squad.

The Reds are also preparing a British-record bid for Newcastle striker Alexander Isak, who is reportedly keen on the move. 

And according to reports in Italy, Liverpool are also eyeing a Juventus midfielder who failed to show up for pre-season, signaling his desire to leave.

There are even suggestions that Liverpool are blocking West Ham from signing two fringe players—showing that every outgoing is also being calculated strategically.

What’s Next?

For now, all eyes are on who Liverpool will officially bid for first: Barcola or Rodrygo.

If PSG continues to refuse all approaches for Barcola, Liverpool could pivot more seriously toward Rodrygo. 

And with Arsenal unlikely to meet Madrid’s demands, the Reds may find themselves in pole position to sign one of Europe’s top wide forwards.

Either way, one thing is certain: Liverpool is not sitting still. The club is rebuilding with intent, chasing players that can help them stay at the top of both English and European football.