Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Blaugrana receive Luis Diaz boost; club eyeing Leroy Sane, and more - April 26, 2024
Barcelona are second in the La Liga table after 32 games, 11 points behind runaway leaders Real Madrid. Xavi's men next face Valencia on Monday, April 29, in the league.
Meanwhile, the Blaugrana have received a boost in their plans to bring Liverpool attacker Luis Diaz to the Camp Nou this summer. Elsewhere, the La Liga champions are interested in Bayern Munich attacker Leroy Sane.
On that note, here's a look at the key Barcelona transfer stories as on April 26, 2024:
Barcelona receive Luis Diaz boost
Barcelona have received a boost in their plans to sign Luis Diaz at the end of this season.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Liverpool have run out of patience with the player and are willing to consider his exit. Diaz enjoyed a stunning start to life at Anfield, but his performances have since dried out. The Colombian has failed to fill the shoes of Sadio Mane but remains highly rated at the Camp Nou.
This season, Diaz has scored 13 goals and set up four in 47 games across competitions. The 27-year-old's efforts have pleased the La Liga champions, who are hoping to add more firepower to their attack before the new campaign.
Ferran Torres' future remains up in the air, while Raphinha is also heavily linked with an exit. Diaz could be a fine addition to Xavi's squad, and Liverpool are likely to let him go for £75 million.
Blaugrana eyeing Leroy Sane
Barcelona are interested in Leroy Sane, according to El Chiringuito. The German forward's contract with Bayern Munich expires in 2025, adding to speculation regarding his future.
Sane has been in fine form for the Bavarians this season, registering nine goals and 13 assists in 39 outings across competitions. The 28-year-old's ability to operate on either flank has further endeared him to the Blaugrana.
The La Liga giants are close to attaining financial stability ahead of the summer and could even have funds available to make a few blockbuster signings. Sane is valued at €80 million, but the Bundesliga giants are in talks to tie him down to a new deal.
Barcelona will be following the situation closely and are likely to move for the player if negotiations for a new deal don't reach a fruitful end.
Xavi outlines reason for decision to stay
Barcelona manager Xavi reckons his decision to stay at Camp Nou is in the best interests of the club.
The Spanish manager had previously announced that he would part ways with the club at the end of the season. A recent upturn in results sparked talks of a possible U-turn in his decision, and a meeting with the club on Thursday finally convinced him to stay.
Speaking to the press, as cited by AS, Xavi sounded confident of taking the La Liga giants to their former glory.
“It has not been a simple or easy decision. In January, I thought it was the best thing for the club, but circumstances have changed and, now, I think that continuity is the best thing. I think that the project is not finished, that we can make it a winning project,” said Xavi.
He continued:
“And I am convinced, I think I have all the illusion in the world. From three months ago, everything has changed. As rectifying is wise, we are here to rectify.
"It was not a matter of ego, nor of money, it is a matter of the club. It’s a cocktail of reasons and, of course, it’s a question of confidence.”
Barcelona recently bowed out of the Champions League against Paris Saint-Germain, and their hopes of defending the league title are also hanging by a thread.