Liverpool stunned fans and analysts by leaving forwards Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz out of the squad for their pre-season friendly against AC Milan in Hong Kong on Saturday, July 26, 2025. The decision by manager Arne Slot intensified speculation about the duo’s potential departure, with both players heavily linked to transfers to other European clubs. Napoli remains keen on signing the Uruguayan Nunez, while Bayern Munich continues to pursue the Colombian Diaz. The absence of the two, who traveled with the team to Asia, raises questions about their future at Anfield, especially after Nunez’s recent performances in friendlies. The match against Milan marks another step in Liverpool’s 2025/26 season preparations, but the focus has shifted to the transfer market.
The exclusion of the two players caught fans off guard, as both were included in Liverpool’s Asia tour squad. Nunez, for instance, scored four goals in two prior friendlies against Preston and Stoke, while Diaz has yet to feature in pre-season. The decision to leave them out of the Hong Kong clash fueled rumors of ongoing transfer talks.
- Napoli is preparing an offer for Darwin Nunez but faces Liverpool’s resistance.
- Bayern Munich ramps up talks for Luis Diaz, who rejected an initial proposal.
- Potential destinations include Serie A and Bundesliga clubs, plus interest from Saudi Arabia.
- Arne Slot is focusing on new signings, like Florian Wirtz, to revamp the attack.
Transfer market movements
The absence of Nunez and Diaz in the AC Milan friendly strengthens the perception that Liverpool is open to negotiating both players. Nunez, signed for €85 million in 2022, has had standout moments but struggled to secure a regular starting spot under Slot last season, with only one Premier League start after Boxing Day. Despite his 66 goals and assists in 143 games, the arrival of new names like Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz suggests the club is looking to refresh its attacking options.
Luis Diaz, a target for Bayern Munich, also faces uncertainty. The Colombian, known for his speed and flair, is a key part of the squad, but rumors suggest he is open to a move. Bayern had an initial £58.5 million offer rejected, but negotiations continue at a rapid pace, with daily talks between the clubs. Diaz’s potential exit would be a blow to fans but could pave the way for new investments in the squad.
Rumors gain traction in Hong Kong
The Hong Kong friendly, part of Liverpool’s pre-season preparations, was meant to test the squad but became overshadowed by transfer speculation. Slot’s decision to exclude Nunez and Diaz, without an official explanation, sparked heated debates on social media and among analysts. As Liverpool gears up to face Yokohama Marinos on July 30, the absence of the two forwards raises questions about the club’s transfer strategy.
- Napoli sees Nunez as a priority but struggles with Liverpool’s high asking price.
- Bayern views Diaz as an ideal replacement to bolster their Bundesliga attack.
- Al-Hilal from Saudi Arabia is considering a bid for Nunez, per local reports.
- Slot may be testing tactical alternatives with new players in the friendly.
The players’ history at Liverpool
Darwin Nunez joined Liverpool from Benfica in 2022 in a club-record transfer. Despite his early impact with key goals and assists, the Uruguayan faced criticism for his inconsistency in front of goal. Last season, his reduced minutes under Slot fueled exit rumors. Clubs like Napoli and AC Milan see him as a potential star in Serie A, while Saudi Arabia emerges as a lucrative option.
Luis Diaz, meanwhile, won over fans with his energy and dribbling since arriving in 2022. However, his lack of pre-season minutes and reported dissatisfaction have increased the likelihood of a transfer. Bayern Munich, seeking a new winger after failed pursuits of other targets, sees the Colombian as a perfect fit for Vincent Kompany’s system.
Arne Slot’s planning strategy
Excluding Nunez and Diaz from the friendly reflects the transitional phase Liverpool is undergoing. Arne Slot, who led the club to the Premier League title last season, appears determined to shape the squad to his tactical vision. The arrivals of Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and the imminent signing of Hugo Ekitike signal a revamp of the attacking unit.
The absence of the two forwards may also be a strategy to protect them from injuries amid ongoing transfer talks. However, the lack of official communication from the club has left fans in the dark, heightening anxiety about the duo’s future.
- Wirtz is set to debut against AC Milan, bringing fresh dynamics to the attack.
- Ekitike, valued at €95 million, could take Nunez’s place in the squad.
- Slot prioritizes versatile players for the upcoming season’s tactics.
- Liverpool seeks a balance between sales and new signings in the market.
Potential destinations and market values
Speculation about Nunez and Diaz’s destinations points to various scenarios. Napoli, whose offer for Nunez was rejected, struggles to meet Liverpool’s financial demands, as the club aims to recoup its investment in the Uruguayan. Bayern Munich, with greater financial power, is closer to a deal for Diaz, though Liverpool remains firm in negotiations.
Saudi Arabia is also a possibility for Nunez, with Al-Hilal considering a substantial offer. The Premier League isn’t ruled out, with Newcastle mentioned as an unlikely but potential destination.
- Napoli may offer up to €70 million for Nunez, below Liverpool’s valuation.
- Bayern is preparing a new €80 million bid for Diaz.
- Al-Hilal sees Nunez as a centerpiece for their Saudi project.
- Newcastle faces financial hurdles to compete for Nunez.
Fan and analyst reactions
The absence of Nunez and Diaz in the friendly sparked mixed reactions among fans. Many took to social media to support the players, urging them to stay, while others believe their sales could fund new signings. Analysts suggest Slot’s decision reflects a pragmatic approach, prioritizing a squad aligned with his playing style.
Liverpool now prepares for the rest of pre-season, with attention split between matches and transfer activity. The coming weeks are expected to bring clarity on Nunez and Diaz’s futures as the club aims to maintain its competitiveness in the Premier League and Champions League.