“If you can’t defeat them, take their star player!” Arsenal is now in talks to sign Liverpool’s top talent next season after falling short in the Premier League title race.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is eager to strengthen his attacking options in the summer transfer window after injuries exposed the squad’s lack of depth this season. With the Gunners likely to fall short in the Premier League title race to Arne Slot’s Liverpool, reinforcing the front line has become a top priority.

Reports from Teamtalk suggest Arsenal are considering a surprising move for Liverpool winger Luis Diaz. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has already indicated that Liverpool are open to offers for the Colombian, creating an opportunity for Arsenal to swoop in.

Diaz’s versatility—capable of playing on both wings and as a forward—has caught Arteta’s attention. This season, he has contributed 13 goals and five assists in 42 appearances across all competitions, showcasing his ability to make an impact in attack.

While Diaz is not Arsenal’s primary transfer target, he remains an option if their top choices fall through. The club’s preferred signing is Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, but competition for the Swedish forward is fierce, with Liverpool also eyeing him as a potential replacement for Darwin Nunez.

For Diaz, a move to Arsenal could provide the chance to stay in the Premier League while continuing to play at the highest level. If the Gunners decide to act on their interest, it could be a transfer too tempting to ignore.

Liverpool, on the other hand, might be reluctant to sell Diaz to a direct rival, given the significant role he has played under Arne Slot. However, financial considerations and the need to refresh the squad could force their hand in the transfer market.

Arsenal’s intent to strengthen their squad this summer is clear, with multiple attacking targets being considered. The club is also monitoring other wingers, including Bayer Leverkusen’s Moussa Diaby and Napoli’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, as they look to add more firepower to their frontline.

Mikel Arteta has emphasized the need for squad depth to compete at the highest level, particularly after narrowly missing out on the Premier League title. The Spaniard is determined to build a team that can challenge on multiple fronts next season.

Liverpool, meanwhile, are bracing for potential squad changes, with several key players expected to leave. The club has already been linked with a move for Real Sociedad’s Mikel Oyarzabal as a possible replacement for Diaz should he depart.

The financial aspect of a potential Diaz transfer will also play a crucial role in negotiations. Arsenal will need to meet Liverpool’s valuation, which is expected to be in the region of £60-70 million, a significant investment for a player who still has years left on his contract.

The decision ultimately lies with Diaz and Liverpool’s management. If Arsenal can present a compelling project and guarantee a key role in Arteta’s setup, they may have a chance to pull off the shock signing.

As the summer transfer window approaches, speculation will continue to mount over Arsenal’s targets and Liverpool’s willingness to part with one of their key attacking players.

If Arsenal successfully sign Diaz, it would be a statement of intent, signaling their ambition to dethrone Liverpool and Manchester City as the dominant forces in English football.

For now, negotiations are still in the early stages, but Arsenal’s interest in Diaz is real, and the coming weeks could determine whether this audacious transfer becomes a reality.