Liverpool Have the Chance to Make Another Luis Diaz-Type Signing – And They Have to Pull the Trigger

By Rousing the Kop Opinion | January 7, 2026

Liverpool FC stands at a pivotal moment in the January 2026 transfer window, with a golden opportunity to replicate the transformative impact of their 2022 signing of Luis Díaz. After Díaz's shock €75 million departure to FC Bayern Munich last summer, the Reds have struggled to replace his explosive pace, goal threat, and relentless work rate on the left wing.[1][2] Bayern's CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen hailed Díaz as "one of the best left wingers in the Premier League," citing his 41 goals and 23 assists in 148 appearances, plus silverware including the Premier League and FA Cup.[1] His absence has left Arne Slot's attack lacking dynamism, especially with Mohamed Salah at the Africa Cup of Nations and Alexander Isak sidelined by a broken leg.[2]

The article argues Liverpool must act decisively on a "Díaz-type" profile: a versatile, high-intensity winger who combines speed, scoring ability (at least 10+ goals per season), and defensive contributions. Enter the prime candidate – Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth. The 25-year-old Ghanaian has erupted this season with 12 goals and 8 assists in 20 Premier League games, mirroring Díaz's pre-Liverpool Porto form.[3] Semenyo's physicality, direct dribbling, and aerial prowess make him ideal for Slot's high-pressing system. Fan comments echo this urgency: "Semenyo is ideal... BIG MISTAKE if we pass!"[3]

Unlike last summer's quiet window post-£450m spend, January priorities are clear: center-back (after Marc Guéhi's collapsed deal and Giovanni Leoni's ACL injury) and winger.[2][3] Reliable journalist James Pearce notes Liverpool's history of mid-season coups (Suarez, Van Dijk, Díaz himself), but warns of a potentially quiet market.[3] Yet, with Semenyo's £50m valuation realistic and Bournemouth open to offers, hesitation risks letting Manchester City swoop – as fans fear.[3][5]

Pulling the trigger isn't optional. Díaz elevated Liverpool from contenders to champions; Semenyo could do the same amid defensive frailties (Konaté out of form, Van Dijk waning) and Salah's rumored Serie A links.[2] Slot's squad needs immediate firepower for a title push. Miss this, and Anfield regrets echo Díaz's sale – fans already joking about his new "music hobby" post-exit.[4] Liverpool: seize the moment.

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