Liverpool Make Contact to Sign Rafael Leao Instead of Yan Diomande

Liverpool have made contact with AC Milan about a deal to sign winger Rafael Leao this summer as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah, according to the Daily Mail.

The Reds are in the market to bolster their squad once again after a disappointing campaign, with legendary forward Salah already confirmed to be departing once the season comes to an end, and Arne Slot admitting that they will be active in the transfer market to replace him and others.

The forward area is one that is being looked at especially, with Hugo Ekitike ruled out with a ruptured achilles for nine months and Federico Chiesa out of favour with Slot, and Leao has now emerged as a target.

Liverpool Make Enquiry to Sign Rafael Leao

Leao, who has been described as a 'superstar', has been highly sought after for several campaigns but has always remained at the San Siro, and this season has enjoyed a decent campaign, netting ten goals.

But with Milan set to miss out on major honours once more, the Portugal international is growing frustrated, and it has now emerged that the Serie A side are prepared to listen to offers for his services as he enters the final two years of his contract.

Leao has been valued at around £60m, and Liverpool have made enquiries about what it would take to get a deal done, with Milan making them aware of the 26-year-old's availability. All parties would prefer to get a deal done before the World Cup too, as good performances could see his price increase if it was done afterwards.

Liverpool have shown a strong interest in RB Leipzig star Yan Diomande, with club chiefs already green-lighting a move for him this summer, but the Bundesliga outfit are demanding at least £80m for the 19-year-old, which is proving prohibitive to any deal currently.

Leao Solves Some Liverpool Issues

Undoubtedly one of the most talented wingers in world football, Leao has often been criticised for his lack of intensity. In the Premier League that could really come back to bite him, but when he is on form, he is electrifying.

But while Liverpool do need a left winger in their squad, with Cody Gakpo's performances far from good enough recently, Salah plays off the right and they need to prioritise someone who can play on that side to ensure they keep balance in their squad.

Leao can play on the left or through the middle, which will help Slot have options, but at £60m it could be a big gamble, although it's clear that there is a deal to be done.

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