Liverpool’s continued push for elite-level reinforcements in Arne Slot’s second season has taken another intriguing turn, with fresh links to Real Madrid’s Rodrygo gaining serious traction. According to Lewis Steele, speaking to The Redmen TV, the Reds’ admiration for the Brazilian international is both credible and concrete.

“A guy that I speak to in Madrid, who was really reliable with the whole Trent Alexander-Arnold saga, sent me a text last week to say that Liverpool really want to sign Rodrygo,” Steele revealed. This isn’t idle speculation. The source involved has previous when it comes to inside information, and this latest development aligns with the club’s growing appetite for top-tier attackers.

Rodrygo, still only 24, represents the sort of signing that would elevate Liverpool’s frontline even further. Having already captured Giorgi Mamardashvili, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez and Florian Wirtz, and with Hugo Ekitike set to arrive for £69 million, the club’s intent to dominate across all competitions is crystal clear.

Despite the excitement, there’s an unavoidable caveat to any potential deal. As Steele pointed out, “There’s definitely interest. It’s a case of who leaves first between Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez. One of them would have to leave for Liverpool to sign Rodrygo.”

This is a pragmatic approach, both financially and tactically. Rodrygo is unlikely to be brought in merely for depth. His arrival would indicate a key role, which naturally prompts questions about who makes way. Darwin Nunez has flattered to deceive in large spells, while Luis Diaz, though impactful, has not nailed down an undroppable status under Slot. Both are also likely to command significant fees if sold, especially in a market still adapting to post-Premier League inflation.

Steele himself touched on the financial balancing act: “As we know, Liverpool have spent an awful lot of money. Can they really afford to sign Rodrygo without selling someone? I’m not so sure.” This honest assessment puts the spotlight on Liverpool’s decision-makers, who will need to juggle short-term needs with long-term planning.

Rodrygo is more than a flashy name. He fits the high-press, high-intensity model that Slot values. Quick, intelligent in possession and adept in multiple forward roles, he would suit Liverpool’s fluid attacking approach. Crucially, his Champions League pedigree and consistency in big games offer an edge that Liverpool have lacked at times in recent seasons.

There’s also a sense that Slot, fresh off a title-winning debut campaign, wants to reshape the squad with his fingerprints. Bringing in Rodrygo, especially at a time when Real Madrid are flush with attacking talent like Endrick and Kylian Mbappé, could be seen as a rare opportunity to pounce on a top player who may find minutes harder to come by in Spain.

With Federico Chiesa also reportedly on the move, the forward market is buzzing. Liverpool’s name being firmly in the mix is no coincidence. Whether the Rodrygo pursuit becomes a blockbuster transfer or simply a missed opportunity depends on the next few weeks. If a suitable offer comes in for Diaz or Nunez, expect this to gather pace quickly.

What’s clear is that Liverpool are not resting on last season’s success. Under Arne Slot, they are building something new, aggressive and forward-thinking. The pursuit of Rodrygo may be the next major step in that evolution.