FC Bayern are pushing ahead in their pursuit of a new left winger, with talks advancing over Luis Diaz (28).
The reigning Bundesliga champions are keen to bolster their options on the left flank following Leroy Sané’s departure on a free transfer to Galatasaray.
Max Eberl and Bayern Munich’s recruitment team are understood to be keeping a watching brief on a number of targets.
However, Diaz’s Liverpool teammate, Cody Gakpo, is no longer highly rated on the shortlist.
Luis Diaz is willing to move to the Bundesliga
Luis Diaz waves a finger in the air in celebration during Colombia game.
(Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)
Luis Diaz has now assured Bayern Munich that he wants to move to the German top-flight this summer.
This follows failed attempts from the club to secure the signing of either Nico Williams (who has since extended his contract at Athletic Bilbao) and PSG’s Bradley Barcola.
We understand here at CF Bayern Insider that Diaz is now Bayern’s number one target for the wing position.
However, this is not a transfer that appears to be plain sailing for Vincent Kompany’s men. Inevitably, Barcelona are also showing interest in the Colombian international, having also missed out on Williams due to financial difficulties.
As such, the former FC Porto man is also on Barça’s list as an alternative option.
Bayern may face competition from Barcelona
It’s no secret that Barcelona are big fans of Luis Diaz.
Head coach, and former FC Bayern favourite, Hansi Flick openly confirmed as much back in May.
“I don’t want to speak about players which are not in my team, but of course Luis Diaz and Marcus Rashford are fantastic players. I like them and we’ll see what happens,” the 60-year-old told reporters (via The Athletic).
The big question for the La Liga giants, of course, remains whether or not they can stump up the funds to compete.
Bayern already know they could afford to meet Nico Williams’ new release clause of €90m [£77.4m]. On that basis, they could likewise afford to test Liverpool’s resolve in the market.
Barcelona, on the other hand, were reportedly able to meet the Spanish international’s original release clause of €58m [£49.9m]. Regardless, they couldn’t guarantee their ability to register Williams.
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Luis Diaz in action for Liverpool
Luis Diaz opens his mouth during Liverpool game.
Marcus Rashford looks forlorn as Cody Gakpo and Christian Falk look on.
Liverpool won’t let Diaz go cheaply
To put it simply: if Barça still can’t afford to register new players, it’s a struggle to imagine them being able to satisfy Liverpool’s asking price and overcome this hurdle without investment.
For what it’s worth, the Merseysiders’ asking price is more than likely to be higher than the €58m it would have initially taken to snap up Nico Williams.
FC Bayern are not out of the woods yet, but they should hold a monetary advantage.
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The Bayern Insider: Liverpool leave Max Eberl guessing over Luis Diaz