Diaz was left out of Liverpool's squad for Saturday's 4-2 pre-season friendly defeat by AC Milan in Hong Kong because of speculation surrounding his future. The 28-year-old’s exit comes after two separate attempts by Liverpool to agree on a contract extension failed.

Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said he had never met a player who smiled so much in training. With Sadio Mane moved into the centre to accommodate Diaz on the left, he quickly became a fan favourite. They loved his direct approach with the ball at his feet and his tenacity out of possession.