Liverpool fans say their ‘perfect’ Luis Diaz replacement is already at Anfield, was a ‘pure joy to watch’ vs AC Milan

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Liverpool fans are convinced they already have an ideal replacement for Luis Diaz at Anfield after seeing their team in friendly action against AC Milan on Saturday.

Arne Slot’s Reds took on Massimiliano Allegri’s Rossoneri at Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Sports Park in the 12:30pm BST kick-off.

Admittedly, Liverpool fell to a 4-2 defeat, with Rafael Leao and his teammates finding it relatively easy against the Reds’ makeshift defence.

However, there were still positives for Slot and his coaching staff, with one of Liverpool’s youngsters once again showing he can already do a job in the senior setup.

Liverpool fans feel Rio Ngumoha can step up in case Luis Diaz is sold

Rio Ngumoha has started all three of Liverpool’s pre-season games and he is providing food for thought for fans, teammates and coaches alike.

On Saturday, he delivered against one of the continent’s biggest teams, setting up Dominik Szoboszlai to score and testing Mike Maignan himself.

Indeed, Ngumoha completed the most dribbles (3) and won the most duels (4) throughout the first half.

Liverpool fans were buzzing over the 16-year-old’s display and said they felt he could step up if Luis Diaz is sold amid interest from the likes of Bayern Munich.

“Rio Ngumoha. I hope Liverpool sells Diaz and doesn’t sign a replacement. This kid is one to watch,” one fan wrote on X.

Another supporter wrote: “Rio Ngumoha is playing like he grew up in the streets of Rio De Janeiro.

“The ball sticks to his feet, so enjoyable to watch. AC Milan’s RB is losing hair.

“If Diaz is leaving, I believe Liverpool already have their LW replacement. Wow.”

The praise for Ngumoha kept coming, with one fan writing: “Wouldn’t be surprised if we don’t buy another winger to replace Diaz if he leaves. Ngumoha is right there.”

Another wrote: “Diaz/Nunez all but gone… replace them, bring in a CB, and I think Ngumoha deserves a chance.

“Hasn’t looked out of place and he’s still only 16! Absolutely unreal! Exciting times!!”

Some fans even claimed Liverpool would not need to sign Rodrygo, as he would stunt Ngumoha’s development.

One fan asked: “Do we really need to spend so much money on Rodrygo or any left winger when we have Rio Ngumoha?

“He could be a top backup for Cody Gakpo. Plus, we’ve got Hugo Ekitike, who can also play there.”

Another wrote: “Would it be crazy to say I would rather promote Rio Ngumoha than sign Rodrygo for anything over £60m?”

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Liverpool’s plan in case Luis Diaz leaves

TBR Football chief correspondent Graeme Bailey recently confirmed that Ngumoha could indeed be in line for more game time at Liverpool if Diaz leaves.

However, he stressed that Liverpool would still look to bring a ready-made replacement, seemingly so there’s not too much pressure on Ngumoha.

As good as Ngumoha is, he’s still just 16, so it would probably be better if he continues to develop away from the spotlight for the next season or two.

That’s not to say he should remain in the Under-21s, as he seems to have outgrown that age group already.

A loan move to a club in the Championship or upper League One this season would probably be a good shout.