Sadio Mane’s future at Liverpool is in just as much doubt as his attacking partner Mo Salah – with his contract ending in 2023. But David James has told GGRecon they already have a ready-made replacement – in Luis Diaz.
Mane, like Salah, is out of contract at Liverpool in the summer of 2023. The ex-Southampton star has been a stalwart for the Reds on the left flank, clocking up 107 goals in 245 games – as well as laying on 44 assists.
But given he turns 30 in April, Liverpool are perhaps understandably hesitant to offer the African Cup of Nations winner a new contract. He will be 32 by the time his current deal ends – but it means his future is in doubt.
Mane has been linked with the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid of late and perhaps, this summer, could see the Senegal star depart. James thinks the Reds already have a replacement for Mane, in new signing Diaz.
“Mane, at some point isn’t going to be playing at the levels he once was. In, Díaz you can see that there’s already a replacement in reserve. If he does have desires to move abroad, sooner would be better than later for him.
“Liverpool is a very well run club and they’ll already have a succession plan in place. I’m definitely not saying they’d welcome him leaving, but they’d send him off with a fond farewell if he was to move,” James said.
James on Mane, Diaz: Is he good enough to replace Liverpool star?
Without a doubt. Even the brief glimpses Liverpool have got to seen Diaz can see just how good the Colombian is. His assist against Cardiff City for Takumi Minamino was sublime, his quick feet and end product on show.
Mane has not always been the best finisher, but the speedster’s work rate, goals at important times and contribution to play are second to none. Diaz has those three abilities in abundance, but is also even more prolific.
If Diaz can adapt to English football and produce the form he was showing for Porto – then there is no reason why he cannot replace Mane. Liverpool might be more tempted to sell Mane, now they have Diaz on board.
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