Luis Diaz has featured fairly regularly in headlines this season for one thing or another.
However, the most common reason is whether Diaz’s future lies with Liverpool or not.
Barcelona are among the teams that have shown an interest in the attacker, but most recently, Saudi Arabian clubs have also been linked.
Despite the interest from Saudi Arabia, Barcelona’s sporting director Deco hasn’t stopped the rumour mill from turning as he recently said that the La Liga outfit ‘likes’ Diaz.
Photo by Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Offside via Getty Images
Photo by Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Offside via Getty Images
As a result of these comments, Arne Slot has now issued a response.
Arne Slot admits he understands Barcelona’s interest in Luis Diaz
There’s no denying that Diaz has been one of Liverpool’s most consistent players this term.
So, it’s not all that much of a surprise to see the Colombia international once again linked with a move away.
Speaking in his pre-Crystal Palace press conference on Friday, Slot said the following about Deco admiring Diaz.
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“Did he say this in front of a microphone or is it hearsay?” he asked. “Every club has their own way of doing things, and I think you’re used to the fact that I don’t speak about players from other clubs who we haven’t signed.
“I understand that he’s a big admirer of Lucho Diaz because I am a big admirer of him as well, he’s a great player, he’s had a great season.
“If he just meant it that way, then he probably would have added to that that he’s an admirer of Mo Salah and Cody Gakpo as well.”
Arne Slot makes Lamine Yamal remark after what was said about Luis Diaz
Now that the summer transfer window is edging ever-closer, the rumour mill will go into overdrive.
The Reds have already been one of the most reported about teams in the top flight, with Jeremie Frimpong the closest to sealing his Liverpool switch.
Although the Liverpool manager may have played down Deco’s remarks, that didn’t stop him from making a joke in his press conference about some of their players.
“He just admires a few players, which we all do,” he said. “I admire Lamine Yamal and Raphinha a lot as well.”
While it’s obvious that the Reds won’t make a move for either of Barcelona’s players, it’s still funny that Slot more or less shut down the Diaz rumours by saying he admired Yamal and Raphinha.
Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images
Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images
Of course, anything can happen in football and by the start of the 2025-26 season, the Reds could have an entirely new-look squad.
Only time will tell what the future holds, but for now, at least it feels like Diaz’s future is at Anfield.