Liverpool have ‘Resumed Talks’ Over Deal for £70m Forward – Report | OneFootball

Luis Diaz Transfer Saga: Bayern’s Renewed Pursuit of Liverpool Star Signals Growing Tensions

Bayern Munich have reignited talks with Liverpool over a potential move for Colombian forward Luis Diaz, as reported by The Athletic. Although the German champions have not yet submitted a second formal offer, they remain in consistent communication with Liverpool’s hierarchy.

Back on July 15, The Athletic confirmed that Liverpool rejected a €67.5million (£58.6m) bid from Bayern for Diaz, who, crucially, “has made it clear that he wants to leave the Anfield club.” While that desire has not been voiced publicly by the player, its implications are serious and undoubtedly place pressure on Liverpool as the summer transfer window continues to unfold.

Bayern’s Persistence and Recruitment Setbacks

Bayern Munich’s renewed interest in Diaz follows a summer of disappointment in their attacking recruitment. High-profile targets have slipped away. Florian Wirtz, once top of Bayern’s list, instead opted for a move to Liverpool. Meanwhile, Nico Williams decided to commit his future to Athletic Club by signing a new contract.

Bayern also explored alternatives like Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig, as reported by The Athletic on July 9. However, their persistent admiration for Diaz, who they view as a flexible and dynamic forward capable of filling various roles across the frontline, has seemingly brought the Colombian back to the top of their wish list.

Diaz’s Status and Slot’s Calculated Decisions

Despite the ongoing speculation, Diaz has trained with Liverpool as normal in Hong Kong ahead of their friendly with AC Milan. That said, he did not feature in their earlier pre-season outings against Preston North End or Stoke City. It is not yet clear whether those omissions were due to fitness concerns, tactical decisions or growing uncertainty surrounding his future.

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Luis Diaz joined Liverpool from Porto in January 2022 for an initial fee of £37.5m, potentially rising to £50m with add-ons. Since then, he has amassed 148 appearances, scoring 41 goals and assisting 23 times across all competitions.

Last season under Arne Slot, Diaz delivered his strongest campaign yet, contributing 13 Premier League goals in 36 appearances as Liverpool claimed the title. His form was pivotal to Slot’s seamless transition into the Anfield dugout.

What Liverpool Stand to Lose

Diaz’s contract runs until summer 2027, which gives Liverpool leverage in negotiations, in which they value him at around £70million. However, if the player is indeed pushing for a move, the club must weigh financial gain against the sporting cost.

Slot has begun to reshape the squad in his own image, and while losing a top performer like Diaz would sting, Liverpool could demand a significant fee to reinvest. Their current forward line, including the likes of Jota, Gakpo, and Salah, still carries depth, but replacing Diaz’s consistency and creativity will not be simple.

As it stands, Liverpool remain firm in their valuation and do not appear willing to part with Diaz on the cheap.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, the Diaz situation is starting to feel increasingly uncomfortable. The timing, just ahead of a title defence and Champions League return, couldn’t be worse. Fans will be asking: why would Diaz want to leave now, after playing a major role in a title-winning season?

Some may point to the allure of Bayern Munich, a club of equal European pedigree and perhaps one offering Diaz a fresh challenge. But this doesn’t negate the fact that Liverpool are in a strong position both competitively and contractually.

Arne Slot has handled the squad transition with clarity and authority so far. However, if Diaz’s desire to leave is genuine, then the club must secure an appropriate replacement quickly. The feeling among the fanbase is that Diaz, despite occasional inconsistency, has always given his all in red. Losing him would hurt, but keeping an unhappy player could hurt more.

It would also be worth watching how Liverpool reinvest any potential windfall. Links to emerging talents and flexible attackers will naturally grow stronger. In any case, fans will trust that the recruitment team, alongside Slot, have contingency plans in place.