Luis Díaz is once again a main figure in the transfer market after weeks of speculation and discreet moves from Barcelona. Joan Laporta and Deco have made the Colombian their number one priority to strengthen the left wing. The unexpected contract renewal of Nico Williams by Athletic forced Barça to rethink its offensive strategy.
The interest in Díaz isn't new, but it has intensified in recent days due to a decisive context. The player, one of Arne Slot's regulars, has seen his image take a significant hit at Anfield. His absence from Diogo Jota's funeral, apparently for personal reasons in Colombia, wasn't well received.
Part of the fans consider it a sign of lack of commitment and respect toward the locker room. That emotional fracture has opened the door to a possible sale, something unthinkable just two months ago. The English club has shown itself open to negotiate, but with very clear conditions.
A high figure and an unexpected alternative
The asking price set by Liverpool is around €70 million (about $75.6 million), an amount that's difficult to take on. At Camp Nou, they don't plan to pay that amount in cash due to 'fair play' restrictions. That's why, in recent meetings, alternative ways have been explored to reach a satisfactory agreement for both parties.
Sources close to the deal say Liverpool would be willing to significantly lower that figure if it receives something in return. Barça, which doesn't want to lose several of its young talents, will have to assess the profiles that have been put forward. Everything will depend on Hansi Flick and Deco's priorities in this summer window.
The truth is that the deal is still alive and talks are kept daily. There's a willingness to bring positions closer, especially because the player is interested in joining Barcelona. In addition, Luis Díaz has already told his inner circle about his desire to take the next step in his career.
Slot points out his objectives at Camp Nou
Arne Slot has been clear with the Anfield club's directors: if Díaz leaves, he wants proven reinforcements. The Dutch coach isn't willing to weaken his squad without immediate and quality compensation. That's why he has requested two very specific names from the Barça locker room.
The first is a young midfielder, with attacking ability and potential, who doesn't have guaranteed prominence in the new Barça. The second is an experienced, reliable central defender, with a contract situation that could facilitate his departure. Both would fit into Slot's system and strengthen two key positions for Liverpool.
Laporta and Deco already have the complete proposal on the table, with names and approximate figures. For now, there's no official response, but the next 48 hours could be decisive. If they accept, Luis Díaz would become a Barça player in record time.
Liverpool asks for...
Yes, the two footballers Liverpool demands are Fermín López and Andreas Christensen. The first has been one of the revelations of the last season, but doesn't have his starting spot secured with Flick. The second, on the other hand, has lost importance in the German coach's plans and could leave before his contract expires.
Barça faces a complex dilemma: take on a multimillion-dollar expense or part with two important pieces. Luis Díaz is liked, he's motivated, and he would be an immediate-impact reinforcement. But the deal requires a considerable sacrifice that not everyone at the club is willing to make.
The decision, as always, will be up to Joan Laporta and Deco. The fans are waiting for an answer soon.
