Luis Diaz is considering a move to Barcelona if his contract talks at Liverpool continue to stall, as per reports in Spain.
The Colombian has been a key player for Arne Slot this season, with nine goals and three assists in 22 appearances. His resilience is noteworthy, having missed only two of Liverpool's matches after featuring in 37 Premier League games last season.
Slot has utilised him as a central striker on occasions this season and is eager to secure him on a new contract. While the Reds' attention has understandably been on Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold - whose contracts expire in June - discussions with Diaz's agents have also taken place. These negotiations are not as pressing, given Diaz's current contract runs until June 2027, but interest from other clubs could accelerate matters.
Antena 2, a Spanish outlet, suggests that Liverpool is facing obstacles in its attempt to extend his contract. The 27-year-old isn't pushing for a transfer, but is reportedly positioning himself for a move to Barcelona when he eventually departs Merseyside.
He is said to prefer a move to Barcelona, although Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan are also potential destinations. Diaz's price tag of around €80 million ($83.4 million) seems to be keeping Barcelona at a respectful distance, in light of its financial woes.
With eyes also on Athletic Bilbao's Nico Williams, Barcelona has yet to strategise around its already stacked flanks featuring Raphinha and Lamine Yamal. For now, Diaz remains an integral element of the Liverpool blueprint under Slot's stewardship, contributing significantly as the Reds lead the Premier League and Champions League charge and stake a claim in the Carabao Cup semifinals.
In the aftermath of Liverpool's 2-1 victory over Southampton in the Carabao Cup, Slot did not mince words about Diaz's versatility and importance to the squad. With Diogo Jota returning from injury, Slot addressed queries on Diaz's positioning: "People said a week ago that Darwin Nunez's numbers aren't high enough but he has now got a goal and an assist.
"Lucho (Diaz) can play in that position. He has done very well for us in that role. He has played more games as a winger but we know he can do it. Darwin and Jota are there but Lucho is definitely an option."