Liverpool star amongst three Barcelona big-name shortlists as their pursuit of Nico Williams stalls - Reports
Liverpool attacker Luis Diaz is among the three names on Barcelona's radar as the Catalan club look to bolster their attack ahead of the 2024-25 season, as per Mundo Deoortivo. Nico Williams was the primary target for Barca but negotiations with Athletic Bilbao have reportedly stalled.
As a result, Barca are courting alternatives and there are three names on their shortlist. Apart from Diaz, Rafael Leao and Kingsley Coman are the other targets. Fabrizio Romano has reported that Hansi Flick likes Coman. They previously worked together at Bayern Munich.
As per Mundo Deportivo, Diaz is another name very popular on Barcelona's radar. The report further states that La Blaugrana don't want to wait and spend the sum they reserved to reinforce their attack.
Luis Diaz, 27, has been a key player for Liverpool since his January 2022 move. The Colombian winger has so far scored 24 goals and has provided 13 assists in 98 appearances for the Merseysiders.
Diaz has a contract with Liverpool until 2027 and his estimated market value is €75 million. Barcelona, given their financial situation, are unlikely to spend that sum. They need to sell players or activate more economic levers to register summer signing Dani Olmo.
Hence, the club might need to strike a deal with Liverpool to add Diaz to their ranks. Rafael Leao, another name on the shortlist, could also cost a fortune. Coman, though, might be available on loan but the Frenchman commands a mega salary.
Luis Diaz dreams of playing for Barcelona
Luis Diaz is at a club of Liverpool's stature but the Colombian drams of moving to Barcelona, as per his father. Diaz senior revealed in November that his son is a massive fan of the Catalan club.
Diaz's father added that it won't be a problem for his son to move to the La Liga giants. Speaking to Win Sports, he said last November (via Liverpool.com):
"It is true that Luis is a loyal Barcelona fan and it would be his dream to go there... There would be no problem if Luis came to Barcelona because it is a top team and one of the best in the world."
Diaz has shown at Liverpool that he could be one of the main attacking forces at a big club. He is tricky and blessed with pace. While end product could be lacking, there's no denying that he is a nightmarish prospect to deal with for defenders at times.