Barça keeps evaluating options to strengthen its attack this summer and, among the names that are most convincing in the club's offices, Luis Díaz stands out. The Colombian has established himself as one of Liverpool's top figures and has the full support of Hansi Flick. In fact, the German considers him an ideal piece for the play style he intends to implement at Camp Nou.
Deco, the sporting director, is clear that he is the profile that best fits to cover the left wing, especially after Nico Williams's recent definitive "no." The sporting management has prioritized his signing over other alternatives such as Marcus Rashford, although it acknowledges that the operation will not be easy. Liverpool doesn't plan to make his departure easy and demands an offer exceeding €70 million (over $75 million) to start negotiations, a figure that would force Barça to close important sales.
Barça starts to get fed up
Despite the interest shown by Barça and the conversations that have started, doubts are beginning to arise within the club about Luis Díaz's true intentions. In recent days, the theory has gained traction that the Colombian could be using Barça's interest as leverage to pressure Liverpool. All this with the aim of securing a salary increase.
This would not be the first time Barça has experienced a situation like this, as happened recently with Nico Williams. The Spanish winger ended up renewing with Athletic Club after weeks of contacts and rumors about a possible transfer to Camp Nou. In Díaz's case, there is concern that the player and his entourage have privately hinted that the priority remains to stay at Anfield, but with a significantly improved contract.
A high cost, too many unknowns
The operation, in addition to being complex from an economic standpoint, is full of uncertainties. With a market value of around €82 million (about $88 million), Barça needs to lighten its squad before considering any formal offer. Players such as Ronald Araújo, Andreas Christensen, Marc-André ter Stegen, or Pablo Torre could be key to generating the necessary income.
However, if it is finally confirmed that Luis Díaz doesn't really want to leave, Barça could decide to change its target and focus its efforts on a realistic signing. In any case, Deco remains very alert to the next moves and to the message that the Colombian winger will give Liverpool this week about his immediate future.