Report: Liverpool want to sign £131.9m winger; Prepared to let Luis Diaz go in player plus cash deal

Liverpool and Chelsea football clubs are reportedly tracking AC Milan winger Raphael Leao, as his contract runs down.

The player has just 18 months remaining on his deal and both teams are said to be interested in his services, with Liverpool even considering allowing Luis Diaz to leave as part of a potential deal, according to the Mirror.

The winger, who has a €150m (£131.9m) release clause in his contract, could be a valuable asset for any team looking to bolster their attacking prowess.

Leao's impressive performances have caught the attention of several top European clubs. Last season, he was instrumental in helping Milan win the Scudetto, scoring 14 goals and assisting 12.

So far this season, the Portuguese winger has already scored 9 goals and provided 10 assists, making him a double threat on the pitch.

As the transfer window approaches, clubs like Liverpool will be assessing all their options to sign the best players available.

The potential signing of Raphael Leao would be an interesting option for the club, as they look to strengthen their squad and bounce back from a disappointing season.

It seems doubtful that this report is true purely based on the fact that Jurgen Klopp would not let a player as important as Diaz to leave as makeweight in a player-plus-cash deal.

Liverpool allowing Diaz to leave as part of the deal would be met with outrage from supporters even if it meant a prodigious talent like Leao replaced him.

The Portuguese winger has demonstrated his ability to score goals, create opportunities for his teammates, and make intelligent runs on the pitch and his versatility and tactical awareness would make him a perfect fit for Jurgen Klopp's system at Liverpool.

However, with Diaz returning from injury soon, perhaps the Colombian can again prove to fans why he was such a brilliant signing.

AC Milan will undoubtedly be concerned about losing Leao for free in 2024, so a potential move this summer could be beneficial for all parties involved.

With Liverpool and Chelsea both interested in signing the talented winger, it remains to be seen which team will be successful in securing his services.

The priority for the Reds is to invest heavily into their midfield with Mason Mount and Jude Bellingham heavily linked with a move to Anfield.