Liverpool transfer edges closer as Arne Slot breaks silence on star's exile

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has revealed that Luis Diaz was omitted from the friendly match against AC Milan due to ongoing transfer talks with Bayern Munich. Meanwhile, Darwin Nunez's absence was down to injury, amidst rumours of interest from Saudi Arabian clubs after Napoli pulled out of a potential deal.

Speaking to LFCTV, Slot indicated that Alexis Mac Allister could soon return to training following an injury: "He hasn't trained with the team yet but the plan is to train part of the session on Monday or Tuesday. I'm not sure if he can play minutes in the game [on Wednesday] already."

Liverpool suffered a 4-2 defeat to AC Milan, with Dominik Szoboszlai and Cody Gakpo both finding the net. The Reds' defence struggled without Joe Gomez, leaving only two fit senior centre-backs available.

However, Slot dismissed concerns over the centre-back position during a press conference, citing Virgil van Dijk's presence and Ryan Gravenberch's versatility: "Ryan showed he can play that position."

He added: "He did it as well, although we favour him as a No.6. Wataru Endo can also play there. So we have enough options, but it is true that Jarell Quansah left and we haven't replaced him yet."

Liverpool, having been active in the transfer market this summer, are reportedly eyeing Newcastle United's Alexander Isak. The potential departure of Diaz could amplify the Reds' need for reinforcements up front.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, gearing up for a clash with Arsenal on Sunday, spoke about Isak's future, as reported by the Daily Mail: "Of course there are things going on behind the scenes," he acknowledged.

Howe emphasised the confidentiality of discussions within the club: "Conversations that happen between Alex and myself and Alex and the club will stay private. Whatever happens has to be for the best of the club."

He also addressed the topic of contract negotiations: "There are no contract talks taking place. That will be for a later date, potentially. I certainly hope he stays. It's football, who knows what the future may bring."

Former Liverpool striker and Newcastle coach Dean Saunders weighed in on the situation, telling Liverpool.com: "It's hard to turn Liverpool down when they look like the favorites to win the Champions League and the favorites to win the Premier League,".

Saunders also considered the fans' perspective: "Isak is loved by all the fans at Newcastle but I think all the fans would understand if Liverpool come calling, then you have got to consider it."

He noted the impact Isak's departure would have on Newcastle: "It would be a blow for Newcastle to lose him. He is their best player and Newcastle have got the richest owners in the world. It's a bit frustrating right now for Eddie Howe."

Saunders concluded by highlighting the complexities of the financial regulations in football: "The spending rules are so complicated that managers are juggling and you end up letting players leave who you don't want to leave."