Bayern Munich have completed a blockbuster £65.5m (€75m) transfer for Liverpool’s dynamic winger Luis Diaz, marking one of the most significant signings of the summer transfer window. The Colombian star, who has been a standout performer in the Premier League, is set to bolster Bayern’s attacking options as they aim to reclaim dominance in the Bundesliga under Vincent Kompany.
The deal, finalized after weeks of negotiations, sees Diaz granted permission to leave Liverpool’s pre-season tour in Tokyo to undergo a medical in Munich, with the move expected to be formalized within the next 24 hours.
Diaz, 28, has been a long-term target for Bayern, who were drawn to his versatility, pace, and relentless work rate. The former Porto forward, who joined Liverpool in January 2022 for an initial £37.5m, played a pivotal role in their 2024-25 Premier League title-winning campaign, scoring 13 goals and providing five assists in 36 top-flight appearances.
His ability to operate across the front line, combined with his defensive contributions, made him an attractive prospect for Bayern, who have been rebuilding their attack following the departures of Leroy Sane and Thomas Muller, alongside Jamal Musiala’s recent injury.
The transfer saga began earlier this summer when Bayern’s initial €67.5m (£58.6m) offer was rebuffed by Liverpool, who insisted on receiving full market value for their star. Diaz, whose contract was set to run until 2027, made it clear he was open to a new challenge, having first signaled his desire to leave Anfield in the summer of 2024.
After Bayern returned with an improved bid, including add-ons, Liverpool reluctantly agreed to the £65.5m package. The deal represents a significant profit for the Reds, who have already raised substantial funds this window through sales of players like Jarell Quansah, Caoimhin Kelleher, and Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot addressed the speculation surrounding Diaz’s future during the club’s pre-season tour, explaining his absence from a 4-2 friendly defeat to AC Milan in Hong Kong. “In Lucho’s situation, it was linked to his future, yeah,” Slot said. “There are a lot of rumours around him lately, and we’ve decided he’s best not playing in the games at the moment. He’s training really well, but I cannot comment much more than that.” Slot’s comments underscored the inevitability of Diaz’s departure, with the player’s representatives pushing for the move to Bayern.
Bayern’s pursuit of Diaz was driven by their need for a versatile forward capable of filling multiple roles. Former Bayern midfielder Lothar Matthaus praised the signing, noting Diaz’s proven quality in the Premier League. “He’s fast, strong in tackles, and gives Bayern more options up front,” Matthaus wrote in his Sky Sports column. “He could play behind Harry Kane or out wide, just like Gnabry or Olise. If Bayern are paying €75m, they must have great confidence in him.” Matthaus also highlighted the club’s shift in focus after missing out on targets like Florian Wirtz, who joined Liverpool, and Nico Williams, who renewed with Athletic Club.
Diaz’s statistical output last season underlines why Bayern were willing to invest heavily. His 18.3% shot conversion rate was a career-high, while his 56 chances created and 52 completed dribbles placed him among the Premier League’s elite.
His ability to win possession in the final third 22 times further showcased his work rate, a trait that aligns with Kompany’s high-pressing philosophy.
The transfer also reflects Bayern’s ambition to bounce back from a trophyless campaign. With Harry Kane, Michael Olise, and now Diaz in their ranks, the Bavarians are assembling a formidable attack. Diaz is expected to sign a four-year contract, with an option for a fifth, and his arrival could pave the way for further signings, with Bayern reportedly eyeing Stuttgart’s Nick Woltemade.