Arne Slot has sent a pointed response to Barcelona and sporting director Deco after comments made about Liverpool star Luis Diaz.
The Colombian international has been a long-term target of Barcelona and has made no secret of his desire to one day play for the La Liga champions. Reports this week stated Barca would step up its interest in Diaz during the summer transfer window.
Ex-Chelsea star Deco only fueled that speculation when he revealed the club's admiration for Diaz, as well as Manchester United outcast Marcus Rashford, when he spoke to Catalan radio station RAC1 about potential new recruits.
"We like Luis Diaz, we like Marcus Rashford and we like other players. When we go to the market, there are names that we know and that could improve the team," he said.
But Slot, who has continually refused to publicly discuss Liverpool's interest in transfer targets, had some words for Barca as he faced the media ahead of Sunday's title celebration against Crystal Palace.
"Every club has its own way of doing things. I don't talk about players from other clubs that we haven't signed," the Reds boss said in his press conference.
"I understand that he is a big admirer of Lucho because I am as well. He is a great player, who is having a great season.
Luis Diaz
Luis Diaz has been a mainstay in Arne Slot's team this season (Image: Getty Images)
If he meant it in that way, I assume he mentioned he was an admirer of Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo too? We all admire some players. I admire Lamine Yamal and Raphinha as well!"
Diaz's father previously admitted that the Colombian had been a lifelong Barcelona fan and had aspirations of one day turning out at the Nou Camp. He said back in 2023: “It is true that Luis is a loyal Barcelona fan and it would be his dream to go there.
“Luis is a player who finds it easy to win [fans] over because of the way he is, because of his humility, his work, his dedication. He is a very disciplined player, thank God.
“There would be no problem if Luis came to Barcelona because it is a top team and one of the best in the world.”
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Diaz is expected to be involved against Palace on Sunday when Liverpool will get its hands on the Premier League trophy. Slot also confirmed that Joe Gomez could feature after his lengthy injury absence, having been in the squad at Brighton.
He added: "Last weekend he was there with the team but he wasn't able to play. There was a spot open so I could show my gratitude towards him for what he has done on and off the pitch.
These players are all professionals but they are also human beings. Joe is one of the nicest human beings you can meet and he is inspiring his teammates even when he is not playing. I am hoping he can get some minutes on Sunday, as long as he ticks the boxes needed."