The ongoing friendly match between Liverpool and AC Milan features the debut of new signing Florian Wirtz. However, the omission of Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez stood out amid their recent transfer speculation.
The Reds travelled to Hong Kong without Italy international Federico Chiesa, who was left at home amid significant speculation over his future at the club. Nunez and Díaz are both in similar situations but were still included in Slot’s squad, and the former has already featured in pre-season.
Despite having both players available, Slot has opted against calling on Núñez or Díaz, both of whom will watch Saturday’s friendly from the sidelines. No formal reason has been given for either player’s absence, with many speculating the transfer uncertainty is to blame.
While each is thought to be open to leaving, Díaz has gone one step further by requesting an exit from Anfield. The Colombian has been the subject of interest from Bayern Munich over the last few weeks, with Liverpool rejecting a £58.5million bid.
However, Bayern are expected to return with a second offer and talkSPORT understands they are willing to bid up to £70m.
According to line up posted on Liverpool official X handle before the game commenced, both Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez were missing from the squad list.
Here’s how the Reds line-up in Hong Kong 👊🔴
Watch the game LIVE on All Red Video ⤵️ #LFCPreSeason
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) July 26, 2025
So far, Arne Slot’s men have comfortably beaten two Championship opponents, first winning at Preston North End and then hammering Stoke City behind closed doors. But this game, played in Hong Kong, should be another level of challenge as preparations for the new campaign ramp up.
This week has seen the Liverpool players undertake double sessions in Asia. And on Thursday, they met up with the latest addition to the team, Hugo Ekitike, who could possibly make his first appearance in a Reds shirt here.
The South Americans have been heavily tipped to depart Anfield this summer and their absence in the match against AC Milan will only increase rumours. The futures of both Liverpool forwards may well be linked with the possible arrival of Alexander Isak.
Their departures would help partly fund what could be another British record transfer from the club this summer, having already broken the record to sign Florian Wirtz for £116m.
