According to journalist Lyall Thomas, Liverpool have turned down an approach from Bayern Munich for Luis Diaz, who is also a target for Barcelona.
The Premier League champions have made it crystal clear to both clubs that the Colombian forward is not for sale. This stance has brought any discussions with Bayern to a complete halt.
It is actually the second time this summer that Liverpool have sent the same message. Earlier in the transfer window, they made it just as clear to Barcelona that they would not consider any offers for Diaz.
This is because Liverpool see Diaz as a key player for their plans over the next few seasons, and club executives are focused on keeping him as part of the squad.
The financial context
While Liverpool are determined not to let Diaz go, there is still a feeling among the player’s representatives that things could change.
Liverpool do not want to sell Luis Diaz. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
The Reds have spent heavily already this summer, investing €40 million on Jeremie Frimpong, €125 million on Florian Wirtz, and €46.9 million on Milos Kerkez.
Given this big outlay, some think Liverpool might eventually consider a sale if Diaz continues to push for an exit.
Financially, any potential deal for Diaz would not necessarily involve a single large payment. Instead, it could be structured in instalments, which might make negotiations easier for interested clubs like Barcelona.
Compared to Nico Williams, Barcelona were planning a smaller investment for Diaz. But at the same time, his older age means he would not have as much resale value in a few years, making the deal less attractive from a long-term business perspective.
For now, though, Liverpool remain firm. They see Diaz as essential to their project and are not open to selling him this summer, no matter the interest from Barcelona or Bayern Munich.