Evaluating the Liverpool squad to see who the club should keep or sell

Luis Diaz

The Colombian has enjoyed a largely convincing campaign and was the one forward in Liverpool’s squad whose spot in the first XI was never in question.

His dribbling, creativity and blistering pace continued to add another dimension to the Reds in the final third.

However, his finishing let his side down on too many occasions while his eight goals in 36 appearances is not a strong enough return for a winger in a title contending team.

Rumors of a move to Barcelona or PSG have circulated over recent months and at 27-years-old, Diaz is unlikely to command greater value in upcoming summers. If a sizable offer comes, Liverpool ought to consider it. 

Verdict: Consider selling

Cody Gakpo

The Dutchman has been hit-or-miss since arriving from PSV in January 2023. He has proven himself effective at progressing the ball forward, has an eye for intelligent passes and is clinical enough when chances come his way.

On the flip side, he’s frequently looked a passenger off the ball as his pressing can be non-existent and he has struggled to meet the physical demands of the Premier League.

Another player whose qualities can be valuable to this Liverpool side, but should not be untouchable in the transfer market.

Verdict: Consider selling

Darwin Nunez

The desperation of Liverpool supporters to see Darwin Nunez succeed is understandable. The Uruguayan’s work rate and commitment is greater than you’ll see from most players and has earned him plenty of patience despite his frustrations in front of goal.

However, as a forward, his main job is to score. The harsh reality after two seasons at Anfield is that he has not produced the goal tally necessary of a forward in a title-winning side (11 in 35 Premier League appearances) and his failure to convert a number of golden opportunities in recent weeks saw his side drop decisive points in the title-run in.

If Liverpool want to bridge the gap between themselves and Arsenal and Manchester City, they will need a more clinical center forward. 

Verdict: Sell 

Mohamed Salah

Liverpool supporters will look back on Salah’s season as a campaign of two halves. In the first-half of the season, the Egyptian was explosive as ever on the right wing as he racked up goal after goal to spearhead Liverpool’s title challenge.

Since a midseason injury, however, he’s looked a shadow of his best self with only two goals from open play since he scored in a 4-3 F.A. Cup defeat to Manchester United on March 17th.

Still, he will end yet another season as Liverpool’s top scorer and it’s certainly in the club’s best interest to retain the central figures in its squad this summer as it looks to ease the transition into the post-Klopp era. 

Verdict: Keep

Diogo Jota

Liverpool missed Jota’s prolific instinct in front of goal dearly during their late season collapse. While he struggles to stay fit throughout an entire season, the Portuguese is the best finisher in the Liverpool squad at the moment.

Whatever Arne Slot’s plans for the team are next season, Jota simply must be a part of them. 

Verdict: Keep

Ben Doak

The 18-year-old winger has looked a real talent in his rare appearances for Liverpool, but is unlikely to get many minutes given the club’s depth of options up front. A move out on loan for more playing time is best for his development. 

Verdict: Loan

Fabio Carvalho 

The 21-year-old has struggled for a place in this Liverpool team since he signed from Fulham two summers ago.

However the last several months have seen him thrive on loan at Hull City with 9 goals and 2 assists in 20 Championship fixtures. He’ll return to Liverpool this summer and a change in management could offer another opportunity to showcase his clear talent. 

Verdict: Keep