Journalist: Two European Giants Pushing to Sign 17-Goal Liverpool Star | OneFootball

Luis Diaz Transfer Drama: Bayern Now Lead Barcelona in Pursuit of Liverpool Star

Luis Diaz’s Liverpool career appears to be entering a pivotal chapter, with the Colombian now reportedly at the centre of a summer transfer tug-of-war. Despite delivering his most productive season in a red shirt to date, scoring 17 goals and assisting eight more across all competitions, the 28-year-old’s future at Anfield remains far from certain.

Diaz has just two years remaining on his current contract, yet Liverpool have shown no interest in opening talks over a new deal. For a player instrumental in Arne Slot’s Premier League title-winning campaign, the lack of urgency from the club hierarchy is notable. Especially when considering his relatively modest salary of around £140,000 per week, the situation feels increasingly unsustainable.

Photo: IMAGO

Bayern Munich Emerge with Intent

According to a fresh report from Christian Falk, Bayern Munich have now identified Diaz as their “number one target” for the wide position this summer. Falk wrote, “Luis Diaz has now assured Bayern Munich that he wants to move to the German top-flight this summer,” adding that “we understand here at CF Bayern Insider that Diaz is now Bayern’s number one target for the wing position.”

This new development places the Bundesliga giants in pole position ahead of FC Barcelona, who had previously been front-runners in the race for Diaz. Deco, Barcelona’s sporting director, has long admired the former FC Porto winger and views him as an ideal alternative after failing to land Nico Williams.

However, Bayern’s advantage lies in their financial clout. As Falk notes, they were prepared to meet Williams’ €90 million release clause before the deal fell through. That same budget could now be redirected towards securing Diaz, who has reportedly given the Bavarians strong encouragement.

Barcelona’s Fading Hopes

Barcelona’s difficulties in competing financially are no secret. The club’s struggles with wage caps and player registrations have made it increasingly difficult to act decisively in the market. Falk noted that “Barcelona are also showing interest in the Colombian international,” but their attempts are complicated by “financial difficulties.”

Even Diaz’s subtle social media activity has hinted at his intentions. The Colombian raised eyebrows when he began following Barcelona’s official Instagram account in June, making them the only club he follows that he hasn’t played for. Yet it now seems that those hints may have been more of a flirtation than a firm commitment.

Liverpool’s Silence Speaks Volumes

What is most intriguing is Liverpool’s passive stance in all this. Diaz’s output, availability, and flair were crucial to their title-winning push under Slot. But the lack of movement on a contract renewal and a willingness to listen to offers suggests the club might be open to cashing in if the price is right.

Given that both Bayern and Barcelona missed out on their first-choice target in Nico Williams, the stage is set for a bidding war. But only one of those clubs appears ready to make Liverpool an offer worth considering.