Liverpool are preparing for Barcelona to go on the offensive for Luis Díaz by targeting Lyon’s Malick Fofana as a replacement.
That’s according to Mundo Deportivo, who say Liverpool want to be prepared for any contingency when it comes to the Colombian.
The newspaper explains that while Liverpool have Díaz locked to a contract until June 2027, they know that Barcelona are lurking, and that the player is tempted to make the move to the Camp Nou.
Given this scenario, Liverpool’s leadership are exploring alternatives to the Colombian and one of them is Fofana according to MD’s information.
The 20-year-old has been one of Lyon’s revelations this season and caused a stir in European football with his performances. Unfortunately for the French side, their financial issues could facilitate a departure.
Liverpool have already sounded out the player and Mundo Deportivo say they have ‘reportedly’ spoken with the French club. The newspaper then says speculation is that a deal would not exceed €20m but Lyon would want something more like €30m.
Díaz’s departure would be valued at €70-80m but Barcelona would prefer to pay something like €60m for him. They are very interested in him, though. In fact, he is one of Deco’s priorities for the summer.
This is something Liverpool seem to be aware of and are planning for, in case Barcelona ever push forward seriously this summer.