Barcelona has expressed interest in Liverpool’s forward, Luis Diaz; however, Liverpool has firmly stated that he is not available for transfer as he is integral to their long-term plans.
Despite reports suggesting Barcelona’s president, Joan Laporta, has approached Diaz’s representatives, the likelihood of a deal seems slim due to Diaz’s outstanding performance since returning from injury and Barcelona’s financial struggles.
Liverpool has set a valuation between €120m (£102m) and €140m (£120m) for Diaz, which Laporta has criticized as unfeasible.
Diaz, who was acquired for £37.5m in January 2022, has proven to be a successful transfer for Liverpool, contributing 22 goals in 85 appearances across all competitions and winning domestic trophies during his time at Anfield. With over three years left on his contract, Liverpool is determined to retain Diaz’s services.
Related stories: Michael Edwards takes up new appointment with Liverpool.
If Barcelona were to somehow secure a deal, Diaz would join the ranks of high-profile departures from Anfield to Camp Nou in the past decade.
Striker Luis Suarez made a £75m move in 2014, followed by Brazilian midfielder Philippe Coutinho in January 2018 for a staggering £140m, a transfer now viewed as ill-advised.
Despite Coutinho’s departure, he maintains he has no regrets about his move to Spain.
In an interview with Sport, he expressed contentment with his decision.
“No. At no time [does he have any regret]. Things did not turn out as I imagined, as people expected, as I expected because I am the first to demand of myself on the field, I tell myself that I have to give more on the field. I tried everything, I have always been very professional and I don’t regret anything.
“It was always my dream to play for Barça and I went there, I enjoyed it, I was able to meet many people, win titles and it will always be in the story of my life.”
When questioned about any alterations he would make to his experience, he further commented:
“Nothing. I would not change anything. Going back is impossible, but as I said I don’t regret anything, I always gave my best in training as I do here and as I did last year and as I will do next year. If things fit well, great and if not, patience.”
