Liverpool’s £45m Gamble on Diogo Jota Still Paying Off

Five years on from Diogo Jota’s arrival at Liverpool, the transfer continues to draw reflection and even regret, particularly from those who sanctioned the deal at Wolves. While it never carried the fireworks of a marquee signing, the £45 million move is increasingly seen as one of the smartest bits of business from the club’s more understated transfer windows.

Quiet Arrival, Immediate Impact

The summer of 2020 was not one filled with fanfare at Anfield. Transfer speculation was limited, and few would have predicted Jota’s switch from Molineux to Merseyside. The announcement came without warning, executed with clinical discretion from Liverpool’s recruitment department.

Jota’s early displays justified the investment. He brought pace, verticality and a natural goal threat that added another layer to Liverpool’s attacking trio. What was initially viewed as a depth signing quickly evolved into a vital rotational option and, at times, a first-choice starter. Across his 182 appearances for the club, Jota has scored 65 goals, despite long spells on the sidelines.

Wolves Chairman Admits Regret

Five years later, Wolves chairman Jeff Shi has publicly conceded that letting Jota go might have been a costly error. Speaking on the Business of Sport podcast, Shi acknowledged the forward’s value and reflected on the conditions surrounding his departure.

“Of course, at the time, Diogo was injured a little bit too much, so he was injured for two months, then two months again or whatever, and not playing so well in the last three, four months for us,” Shi explained.

“But he went to Liverpool, he did so well, and I was very happy for him. He was a very good guy and a smart boy. But if you ask me if I can change the history, I wouldn’t have sold him.”

Such a statement underlines how quickly reputations can change in football. Jota may have lacked consistency towards the end of his Wolves stint, but his transformation at Liverpool is testament to the environment and coaching he stepped into.

Injury Struggles Shape His Liverpool Story

Despite his strong goal return, Jota’s Liverpool career has not been without challenges. Injuries have repeatedly interrupted his momentum, forcing the club to frequently reshuffle their frontline. When fit, few question his quality. His intelligence in the final third and his ability to finish with both feet and head make him one of the most clinical finishers at the club.

However, reliability is everything in a demanding squad, particularly under Arne Slot, who prioritises fluid movement and intensity. Jota’s injury record may prompt Liverpool to reconsider their attacking depth this summer, especially with other forwards also attracting attention.

Future Still Uncertain Amid Interest

At 28, Jota remains a player with resale value. Saudi clubs and Premier League sides have shown interest, though nothing has materialised so far. Wolves, facing the loss of Mateus Cunha to Manchester United, could be tempted to bring him back to Molineux, especially in light of Shi’s comments.

Liverpool, meanwhile, are in no rush to sell. Recouping the full £45 million might be ambitious, but a valuation in the region of £40 million would likely bring serious suitors to the table. For now, Jota’s presence in the squad continues to offer a valuable blend of experience, versatility and quality in front of goal.