“Protecting his Value” – Dave Hendrick Explains why Liverpool Will Offer a Contract to Luis Diaz | OneFootball

Luis Diaz Contract Talks: A Smart Move by Liverpool?

Liverpool are reportedly set to initiate contract talks with Luis Diaz, according to Dave Hendrick from Anfield Index’s Daily Red Podcast. This move comes as part of a broader effort to extend the contracts of key players, including the likes of Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk. Despite some fan scepticism, Hendrick emphasizes that securing Diaz’s future is a strategic decision aimed at protecting the value of a player who has the potential to continue delivering for the club.

Why Now? Diaz’s Current Form and Value

One key takeaway from Hendrick’s commentary is the need to safeguard Diaz’s market value. “The reason you would extend Luis Diaz’s contract at this point is to protect his value,” Hendrick asserts. He reminds listeners that Diaz is 27 and will turn 28 during this season, with his current contract running until the summer of 2027. In two to three years, Diaz will approach 30, and Liverpool wants to avoid a situation where they’re forced to sell him for a reduced fee with only one year left on his contract.

Diaz joined Liverpool in January 2022 and has been a significant contributor ever since. His arrival energized the squad during a crucial part of the 2021-2022 season, helping the team clinch two trophies and reach the Champions League final. In his debut half-season, he scored six goals in 26 appearances, while his overall record at Liverpool includes 27 goals and 14 assists in 101 games. As Hendrick points out, “Even last season when out of form, he put up decent numbers—13 goals and five assists in 51 games.”

Diaz’s Contract: A Reflection of His Role at Liverpool

Critics may question why Diaz is receiving a new contract given his recent injury history, but Hendrick explains the logic behind it. “Diaz is underpaid at Liverpool,” he says, explaining that when Diaz joined from Porto, he was on a relatively modest salary compared to his current and potential contributions. According to Hendrick, Diaz was earning around £55,000 per week, a figure that pales in comparison to the wages of his peers, including backup players like Cody Gakpo. Rewarding Diaz with a more lucrative contract now not only acknowledges his value but also ensures he remains committed and motivated.

Hendrick also addresses the concerns about Diaz’s injury. The Colombian international suffered a major knee injury during the 2022-2023 season but has since shown glimpses of his old form. This season, he’s already contributed three goals in the early stages, and Hendrick emphasizes that Diaz is very much a “confidence player.” Offering him a new contract at this point could help boost his confidence even further, ensuring that the Reds get the best out of him in the upcoming seasons.

Photo: IMAGO

The Future of Luis Diaz at Liverpool

Hendrick doesn’t shy away from acknowledging that while Diaz is a talented player, he isn’t in the “untouchable” category like players such as Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold, or Virgil van Dijk. “Luis Diaz just isn’t one of those,” Hendrick admits. However, he is quick to defend the potential contract renewal by underscoring Diaz’s versatility and crucial role in Liverpool’s tactical setup, particularly in the lopsided 4-2-3-1 formation that Arne Slot has deployed this season.

Hendrick notes how Diaz’s strengths as a left winger, adept at dragging defenders wide and creating space, make him an essential part of Slot’s system. “Diaz needs to play a bit deeper,” Hendrick says, highlighting how the tactical adjustments this season have allowed Diaz to play a more natural role, one that suits his skill set better than the responsibilities he was given last season.

Conclusion: A Strategic Investment

In summary, Hendrick views Liverpool’s decision to begin contract talks with Diaz as a smart move. Protecting the player’s value and boosting his confidence, while rewarding him for his contributions, is part of Liverpool’s proactive approach to asset management. The club appears to have learned lessons from past contract situations and is now looking to secure the futures of its core players well in advance. While Diaz may not be at the same level as Liverpool’s untouchable stars, he remains a key player who can deliver consistent performances when managed correctly.

For fans, Hendrick’s analysis suggests that the contract talks are about more than just rewarding a few good games; they are about ensuring Liverpool remains competitive for years to come. As Hendrick puts it, “It’s all about putting ourselves in a stronger position and being pre-emptive and proactive.”