Barcelona is considering a £72 million (about 134 billion won) investment to acquire Luis Diaz (28, Liverpool).
Spain's 'Sport' reported on the 21st (Korean time) that "Barcelona has marked Diaz as a key target for the summer transfer market," adding, "Head coach Hansi Flick (60), wanting to take a step forward after the Champions League semifinals setback, will make a surprise signing."
Currently, Barcelona evaluates Diaz, a Colombian, as a crucial part of the triangular formation alongside Raphinha (29) and Lamine Yamal (18). Primarily playing on the left, but capable of playing at the forefront and on the right side as well, Diaz has performed admirably since joining Liverpool.
Diaz transferred to Liverpool from Porto (Portugal) in 2022. At that time, the transfer fee was £50 million (about 93.1 billion won). Diaz has recorded 41 goals and 23 assists over a total of 147 matches for Liverpool. This season, he has scored 13 goals (7 assists) in the Premier League.
Diaz was primarily a left winger under Jürgen Klopp. However, after the change to coach Arne Slot’s system, Cody Gakpo was positioned on the left, often moving Diaz toward the center.
Liverpool, having succeeded in winning the Premier League, recently re-signed 2 of their 3 key players. Both Mohamed Salah (33) and Virgil van Dijk (34) have signed 2-year extensions. In contrast, Trent Alexander-Arnold (27) failed to reach an agreement and is expected to be released as a free agent (FA).
Now, Liverpool must decide on Diaz's future, while Barcelona is targeting him. If Diaz joins, Barcelona would be able to build a top-tier resource along with Raphinha and Yamal.
Interest in Diaz stems in part from Barcelona's elimination in the Champions League semifinals. Barcelona lost to Inter Milan with an aggregate score of 6-7 over two matches. Flick, having missed out on the treble, has determined that Diaz is necessary for Barcelona's leap next season.
In particular, Barcelona is prepared to incur a £72 million expenditure to bring Diaz in. As the opening of the new Camp Nou home stadium enters its final stages, Barcelona is regaining financial stability.
In a recent interview with 'Telemundo', Diaz stated, "I will talk about (contract renewal), but I could stay for as many years as possible," while also noting, "However, everything depends on discussions with the club."
He continued, "This is a matter that will be resolved separately," adding, "I am very calm and happy, and I enjoy the Premier League," expressing his satisfaction with life at Liverpool.
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