Liverpool are preparing to offload Takumi Minamino as well as Divock Origi once then secure the signing of Luis Diaz from Porto, according to The Athletic.
Diaz is set to undergo a medical this weekend and in order to raise funds, Jurgen Klopp has decided to put two of his forwards up for sale.
Right now, there has been no concrete interest in Origi from any club but as per the latest updates, Leeds United are eyeing a move for Takumi Minamino before deadline day.
It’s still unclear if Leeds United want to sign Minamino on a loan deal or a permanent transfer but if Bielsa’s side can match Liverpool’s demands then it’s only a matter of time before the winger is playing in the white of Leeds. As per some rumours, Liverpool have valued Takumi Minamino at £20m, a price which the Elland Road outfit are quite capable of paying.
With Luis Diaz set to undergo a medical this weekend, Liverpool will consider offers for Divock Origi and Takumi Minamino prior to Monday's deadline. #LFC https://t.co/37woa1lOh2
— James Pearce (@JamesPearceLFC) January 28, 2022
Should Liverpool be selling both Origi and Minamino?
Liverpool brought in Origi as well Takumi Minamino with a lot of promise but both these players have failed miserably.
While Divock Origi has had flashes of brilliance, particularly in Europe, Minamino has turned out to be a failed transfer. He’s scored played only 49 games for Liverpool since joining them in 2020 and during this period he was even sent out on loan.
Klopp hoped his loan stint with Southampton would help revive his career but the 27-year-old has failed to break into the first XI.
Luis Diaz, on the other hand, has been on fire for FC Porto scoring 14 goals in 18 league appearances this season. The 25-year-old is a like for like replacement for Takumi Minamino so once he’s onboard, Jurgen Klopp will not think twice before letting Minamino join Leeds United.
What role will Takumi Minamino play at Leeds United?
Leeds have been struggling to find the back of the net this season and so far, they have managed to score only 24 goals in the Premier League. They are currently 15th on the table with a goal difference of minus 16.
Leeds are not immune from the relegation battle just yet and right now they need someone who can score goals.
Takumi Minamino does not exactly possess that quality but the Japanese can very well be a support for someone like Bamford in and around the final third. He is a great playmaker and he also has an eye for that cutting-edge pass. Also, he’s played under Jurgen Klopp meaning he’s well versed in following instructions and doing what his manager asks him to do and such a player has a great prospect to shine under Bielsa.
Leeds United are the only English team interested in signing Minamino right now and once Liverpool confirm the acquisition of Diaz, the Japanese will be allowed to pack his bags.
