Barcelona sporting director Deco says Liverpool winger Luis Diaz has the "right mindset" amid interest in the Colombian— but Athletic Club forward Nico Williams is a likelier addition at the Camp Nou this summer.
While Barcelona already has Raphinha and Lamine Yamal to play in wide positions, it is looking for more depth in attack with Diaz one player that is admired by the Catalan side. And Deco, in particular, is a huge admirer of the 28-year-old.
"As wingers, we only have Lamine and Raphinha," Deco told La Vanguardia. "Ferran Torres is now more of a striker. When we’re missing Lamine or Raphinha, the team’s level drops. So, we’re looking at options based on quality and cost.
"There’s a clear criterion that any player coming to Barça must believe in the project. Nico didn’t come last season, as Dani Olmo was a bigger priority. But now, Nico and others are showing more desire to join."
Williams would be an easier deal to do because of his release clause, which stands at around $67 million (£50 million). But there is also interest from Bayern Munich, and Williams' salary is enormous.
"In the end, you follow a process," Deco said. "Speak to the agent, look at the contract, and then see if the club wants the release clause paid or is open to talks. In Nico’s case, the clause is clear.
Luis Diaz in action for Colombia.
Luis Diaz in action for Colombia. (Image: Roberto Tuero/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
"We have a good group, and we want to keep it that way. Players like Nico or Luis Diaz have the right mindset. They’re hungry to succeed, and that matters."
If Barcelona does conclude a deal for Nico Williams, then the chatter around Diaz should be over. "If we close a winger, no more high-level players will arrive," Deco said.
Liverpool doesn't want to lose Diaz and knocked back an approach from Barcelona earlier in the summer. With two years left on his contract, however, a large enough bid might be tempting.
"I’m very happy at Liverpool," Diaz said during a press conference while away on international duty with Colombia earlier in the summer. "They’ve treated me well since the first day.
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"We’re talking with other clubs. It’s the transfer window, it’s normal. If Liverpool renews my contract, or if I have to stay the two years I have left, I’ll be happy. It’s up to them."
Liverpool.com says: Diaz is at an age where signing him up to a new contract wouldn't make sense for Liverpool. Keeping him, though, shouldn't be out of the question.
Diaz did well under Arne Slot last season and had his most prolific campaign for the Reds to date. The Colombian played as a number nine for a large part of the campaign but was at his best when he was positioned wide left.