Barcelona remain optimistic in hope to land €70m-rated South American speedster despite complications | OneFootball

Barcelona’s pursuit of Liverpool star Luis Diaz is gaining serious traction, with a report from SPORT revealing growing optimism within the Catalan club.

The Blaugrana are said to be confident that the Colombian forward will arrive at the Camp Nou sooner or later.

The key reason behind this optimism? Diaz himself. According to the report, the 28-year-old has made it clear that he wants to play for Barcelona.

His entourage has been in ongoing contact with Barça officials for several weeks, and the player’s desire to swap the Premier League for La Liga is no longer a secret.

Optimism at Barcelona

Barcelona believe the deal is possible, and the only uncertainty lies in the timing. The amount Liverpool demand will likely depend on when the operation takes place.

Ideally, Barça want Diaz in before pre-season. However, if negotiations drag on, they may have to wait until later in the summer window.

Barcelona are interested in Luis Diaz. (Photo by PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images)

Despite Liverpool not being particularly keen on selling, Barcelona sense an opportunity.

This is because the Reds are under financial pressure and have already invested heavily, spending €40 million on Jeremie Frimpong and nearing another blockbuster move for German talent Florian Wirtz.

With more signings expected, Liverpool could be open to selling Diaz to balance their books.

Will not pay any price

That said, Barcelona are not willing to meet Liverpool’s reported €80 million asking price. The absence of a release clause means direct negotiations between the clubs are necessary, and Barça are banking on Diaz making a strong push to force the move.

They are also aware of potential offers for Diaz from Saudi Arabia, but the player’s preference for Barcelona is expected to weigh heavily on the final outcome.

With two years remaining on his Liverpool contract, the situation is delicate. But if the winger maintains pressure and signals his intention to leave, Liverpool may be forced to negotiate on more favourable terms for Barcelona.

*Player valuation in title obtained from transfermarkt.com on date of publication.