The future of Luis Diaz might have already been confirmed as he continues to be linked with a summer move away from Liverpool. The winger remains tied down until 2027 but has been tipped to leave Anfield ahead of the new campaign with his contract ticking down. Barcelona would appear to be the most likely destination for Diaz, who chipped in with 13 league goals for the Reds last season.
It has been reported that Barcelona are interested in bringing the 28-year-old to the Nou Camp this summer. According to Sport, they are willing to pay around £51million to secure Diaz's signature over the coming weeks. However, a new development suggests the Catalan giants could be about to shelve their interest in the Liverpool man.
They are said to be making progress on a different front, with Fabrizio Romano claiming that Nico Williams has emerged as Barcelona's priority target. The report states they have decided to 'activate' a deal for the Spain international with talks said to be underway.
Terms are yet to be agreed at club level and Barcelona will need to discuss the terms of his £49m release clause with Athletic Bilbao. Williams is thought to be keen on making the switch, having given his 'total priority' to ensuring the move goes ahead.
This could be good news for Liverpool, who do not want to sell Diaz this summer. According to The Times, they have no intention of letting him leave and have been left 'perplexed' by the noise surrounding his future.
Meanwhile, reports in Colombia have suggested that Diaz is not pushing for an exit at this stage of the window. Given that Barcelona are now pressing ahead to sign Williams, it seems Liverpool may get to keep their man for at least another season.
That said, it will be crucial for the Reds to extend Diaz's contract if they are serious about warding off external interest. He recently admitted to holding talks with other clubs, insisting the ball was firmly in Liverpool's court regarding his future.
While on international duty with Colombia, he said: "We are talking with other clubs. It’s normal in the transfer window and we are looking at the best for us.
"If they offer us a good renewal or I stay there for the two years [of his current contract], I’ll be happy. Now it’s up to them."
Diaz has been a hugely important player for Liverpool since joining the club from Porto in the summer of 2022. He has scored 41 goals in 148 competitive appearances, with last season's tally playing a key role in their Premier League success.