Liverpool winger Luis Diaz finds himself embroiled in a complicated transfer saga as Barcelona intensifies efforts to secure his signature.
The Colombian forward, who has been a key performer for the Reds, is caught in what one soccer analyst is calling an "impossible" situation. Barcelona has long admired Diaz for his pace, skill, and versatility on the wing. An approach for the winger by the Catalan club was rebuffed by the Reds earlier this week.
Liverpool has reportedly tried to address Diaz's contract situation, but talks have made little headway. Instead of selling him this summer, the club appears willing to keep him for the next two seasons and possibly allow him to leave on a free transfer after the 2026–27 season.
Spanish football expert Guillem Balague believes it would be "impossible" for Barcelona to sign the 28-year-old due to financial constraints.
Speculation about the Colombian international's future at Anfield has intensified after both he and his girlfriend posted lengthy messages on social media, which many have interpreted as possible farewells.
"He has put himself in the frame of a possible transfer and he has a decision to make," said Balague on BBC Radio 5 Live's Euro Leagues podcast. He has two years left on his contract and Liverpool have no interest in selling him, but they also have no interest in renewing his contract at the moment.
"Diaz's agent is friends with Deco - Barcelona's sporting director - and Barca really like Diaz because they are looking for a left-winger."
Liverpool's Luis Diaz celebrates with the Premier League trophy
Liverpool has rejected an approach from Barcelona for Luis Diaz (Image: Getty Images)
Balague added: "They haven't made an offer yet but they are likely to bid 40-60 million euros. Liverpool will point out that Bruno Fernandes was going to go for £100 million ($135 million), so they expect the same if they are going to sell him.
"Barcelona don't have that money and, at the moment, they don't know if they can even raise that money because of the financial approvals needed. It would be a puzzle for them to even get the 60m euros. I think it would be impossible for them."
Should Diaz leave Anfield in the future, he is expected to join Barcelona or at least remain in Europe.
Diaz is reportedly willing to do everything he can to fulfill his dream of moving to Barcelona, and he spoke about his future this week while on international duty.
"I’m very happy at Liverpool," said Diaz. "They’ve treated me well since the first day. We’re talking with other clubs.
"It’s the transfer window, it’s normal. If Liverpool renews my contract, or if I have to stay the two years I have left, I’ll be happy. It’s up to them."