Liverpool winger Luis Diaz has spoken out about his future following the club’s firm rejection of an approach from Barcelona, who sought to discuss a potential transfer for the Colombian star. The 28-year-old, currently on international duty with Colombia ahead of their World Cup qualifiers against Peru and Argentina, addressed the swirling speculation surrounding his future, admitting to ongoing discussions with other clubs while expressing contentment at Anfield.
Diaz, who played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s Premier League title-winning campaign under manager Arne Slot, has been a subject of intense transfer interest. Barcelona, fresh off securing both La Liga and the Copa Del Rey, contacted Liverpool on Wednesday to explore a move for the versatile forward, only to be told unequivocally that Diaz is not for sale. Sources indicate that Liverpool’s head coach Arne Slot considers Diaz integral to his plans for the 2025-26 season, with the club valuing him highly after his impressive tally of 17 goals and eight assists in 50 appearances across all competitions this season.
Speaking at a press conference in Colombia, Diaz struck a balanced tone, neither fully committing to Liverpool nor ruling out a potential move. “I’m very happy at Liverpool, I’ve always said so,” Diaz stated. “They’ve treated me well since the first day. The transfer market is open, and we’re trying to arrange what’s best for us. I’m waiting to see what happens. If Liverpool gives us a good renewal or I stay for the two years I have left, I’ll be happy. It all depends on them.”
Diaz’s comments come as his current contract, set to expire in the summer of 2027, enters its final two years, raising questions about his long-term future at Anfield. Liverpool’s stance, as reported by The Athletic, is to maximize Diaz’s performance value during his prime years, even if it means risking him leaving as a free agent in 2027, unless a substantial offer arrives that allows them to secure a high-quality replacement.
Barcelona’s interest in Diaz is no surprise, with their sporting director Deco and manager Hansi Flick publicly praising the winger in recent weeks. Diaz’s father has previously described a move to the Camp Nou as a “dream,” and reports suggest the player is “intrigued” by the prospect of playing under Flick. However, Barcelona’s financial constraints may hinder their ability to meet Liverpool’s valuation, which is believed to be significantly higher than the €100 million price tag recently placed on Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes, who is two years older than Diaz.
Adding to the speculation, Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr has also emerged as a serious contender, reportedly viewing Diaz as their top target and a potential replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo. Sources claim Al-Nassr is prepared to offer up to €85 million (£71.6 million) for the winger, a sum that could tempt Liverpool to consider a deal, especially as they pursue high-profile targets like Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz.
Despite the interest, Liverpool’s firm rejection of Barcelona’s approach underscores their determination to retain Diaz, who has proven his versatility by excelling both on the left wing and as a false nine. The club’s recent signings, including Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen for £29.5 million, and their pursuit of other targets like Milos Kerkez, indicate a strategy to bolster the squad while keeping key players like Diaz.
However, Diaz’s cryptic remarks and the lack of progress on a contract extension have fueled uncertainty. Posts on X have further amplified the speculation, with some claiming Diaz has rejected Liverpool’s contract offers, citing a desire to join Barcelona, though these reports remain unverified. Liverpool, meanwhile, has shown no appetite to entertain offers, with sources indicating that only a “big-money offer” capable of funding a suitable replacement would prompt negotiations.