Barcelona’s interest in Liverpool winger Luis Diaz has been ongoing for months, and with the summer transfer window approaching, that interest is heating up. Diaz’s father previously mentioned that joining Barcelona would fulfill his son’s dream.
While a move has been discussed for a while, Diaz’s future at Liverpool is still uncertain. His representatives are reportedly in talks with the club over a contract renewal, though an exit hasn’t been ruled out.
Currently a key player for Liverpool, Diaz won’t come cheap—Spanish outlet Fichajes reports the club has set his price at €80 million (£67 million) and is unwilling to lower it.
Barcelona, eager to sign the Colombian winger, finds that fee steep and is said to be looking at alternative options to secure the deal. One such option could involve a player-exchange arrangement.
Liverpool has long admired Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong. If Barcelona includes De Jong in a swap deal for Diaz, it might convince Liverpool to negotiate. Earlier this month, reports claimed Liverpool was willing to pay €40 million (£34 million) for De Jong.
With De Jong’s contract expiring next summer, Barcelona may be under pressure to sell now or risk losing him for free. Offering De Jong plus cash could be their best shot at landing Diaz
