Barcelona Eyes Luis Diaz as Top Summer Transfer Priority
Barcelona has made Liverpoolâs Colombian winger Luis Diaz their top target for the upcoming transfer window, intensifying speculation about a high-profile move this summer. The Catalan clubâs sporting director Deco, with the approval of new head coach Hansi Flick, is leading efforts to secure Diaz as Barcelona looks to reinforce their left wing, a position identified as a key area for improvement.
Diaz, who has enjoyed a standout season at Liverpool with 17 goals and five assists across all competitions, is reportedly admired for his versatility and attacking prowess. Despite his success at Anfield, Diaz is said to be attracted by the prospect of playing for Barcelona, a club he has supported since childhood. However, Liverpool has set a steep asking price of around âŹ80 million (ÂŁ67.2 million; $89.3 million), which could prove prohibitive for Barcelona given their current financial constraints.
Internal Concerns and Transfer Dynamics
Barcelonaâs senior players and management have expressed concerns about the significant fee required to sign Diaz, especially as the club has not spent more than âŹ80 million on a single player since 2019. The clubâs ability to make such a major investment may depend on generating funds through player sales before the transfer can proceed.
Meanwhile, Liverpool is reportedly preparing to open talks with Diaz over a contract extension, with his current deal set to run until 2027. Diaz has publicly expressed happiness at Liverpool, stating, âSince the first day I arrived, Iâve always been happy, calm, enjoying the football played at this great teamâ. Nevertheless, reports suggest Diazâs camp is using Barcelonaâs interest to negotiate more favorable terms in his new contract, a tactic that could either lead to improved conditions at Liverpool or keep the door open for a transfer.
Potential Replacements and External Interest
Should Diaz leave, Liverpool is considering 20-year-old Lyon winger Malick Fofana as a potential replacement. Additionally, Diaz has attracted interest from the Saudi Pro League, which is also monitoring Liverpool teammates Darwin Nunez and Diogo Jota, further complicating Liverpoolâs summer plans.
Outlook
While Barcelonaâs pursuit of Diaz is genuine, the dealâs completion remains uncertain due to financial hurdles and the playerâs ongoing contract negotiations at Liverpool. If Barcelona is unable to meet Liverpoolâs valuation or agree on personal terms, they may shift their focus to alternative targets, such as Marcus Rashford.
Vasco da Gama Ordered to Pay Millions to DĂaz Family by FIFA
In a separate development, FIFA has ruled against Vasco da Gama in a contractual dispute with former coach RamĂłn DĂaz and his son Emiliano DĂaz. The Brazilian club has been ordered to pay a total of R$30.5 million (approximately $5.4 million) in fines and severance payâR$15.7 million in fines and R$866,000 in severance for RamĂłn, and R$13.3 million in fines plus R$644,000 in severance for Emiliano.
The dispute arose following the duoâs departure in April 2024, after a heavy defeat in the Brazilian league. While Vasco claims the DĂaz family resigned voluntarily, the coaches argue they were dismissed, leading to the legal battle.
Vasco has announced plans to appeal the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and has indicated it will seek compensation from former management if the ruling is upheld. The club is currently undergoing judicial recovery and may include the debt in its restructuring process if required to pay.
These developments mark a turbulent period for both Barcelona and Vasco da Gama, with major financial and sporting implications expected in the coming months.