How Liverpool almost signed another world class striker for much cheaper than Alexander Isak

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Liverpool engaged in transfer talks with Manchester City in 2024 regarding a potential swap deal involving Julian Alvarez and Luis Diaz. The proposal involved Diaz moving to Manchester City while Alvarez would join Liverpool. At the time, Alvarez was 24 years old, had spent two years in England scoring 36 goals, making him a highly attractive target for Liverpool.

However, Manchester City firmly rejected the swap, citing a policy of not selling players to Premier League rivals. Liverpool responded similarly, stating they would not sell to rivals either, effectively ending the negotiation.

Despite missing out in 2024, Alvarez, who moved from Manchester City to Atletico Madrid in a deal potentially worth €95 million, remains a long-term Liverpool target. He scored 29 goals for Atletico Madrid in all competitions but is reported to be regretting the move due to dissatisfaction with his role under coach Diego Simeone. Sources indicate that Alvarez’s camp feels he has not been given the position he deserves, often being deployed out of position or substituted early. There is a sense within his entourage that Simeone struggles to manage a star player of Alvarez’s calibre.

Meanwhile, Liverpool continues their search for a top striker. Their main target has been Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, though the club’s valuation at £150 million and Isak’s strike action complicate a transfer. Consequently, Liverpool may consider Alvarez as a viable alternative due to his goal-scoring record, international quality, and tactical flexibility.

Though Atletico Madrid highly value Alvarez and currently have no plans to sell him this summer, Barcelona has identified him as a key target to replace Robert Lewandowski in the future, likely requiring an offer exceeding €100 million.

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