Liverpool slap €60m price tag on 27-year-old star amid interest from LaLiga giants Barcelona: Reports
Liverpool want €60m to part ways with Barcelona target Luis Diaz, according to Fichajes.net. The Catalans are planning to add a proven left-forward to their roster, despite Raphinha's stunning form this campaign.
Hansi Flick shifted the Brazilian to the left flank to accommodate him and Lamine Yamal in the team at the start of the season. The decision has turned out to be a masterstroke, with the 28-year-old playing some of the best football of his career at the moment.
Raphinha has registered 17 goals and 10 assists from 26 games across competitions this season for the LaLiga giants. However, Barcelona are still looking to bolster the position and have set their sights on Diaz.
Catalans' sporting director Deco is apparently pushing for the transfer, while the Colombian has previously expressed a desire to move to Camp Nou. The player's contract with Liverpool runs until 2027, but his future remains uncertain.
The 27-year-old has been in fine form for the Merseyside club this season, registering 12 goals and three assists from 26 games. The Reds apparently offered him a new deal which was turned down by the player.
Diaz dreams of joining Barcelona, which could prompt Liverpool to consider his sale. However, the Merseyside club have slapped a €60m price tag on his head. That could scupper his move to Camp Nou, given that the Catalans are facing financial problems.
Are Liverpool eyeing a Barcelona midfielder?
Recent reports have suggested that Liverpool have set their sights on Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong. The Dutchman has entered the final 18 months of his contract with the Catalans and his future remains uncertain.
It is now believed that the LaLiga giants are ready to let him go for €35m this year. De Jong missed the start of the campaign with an injury and has struggled to break into Hansi Flick's plans since his return.
The 27-year-old has registered one goal and one assist from 15 games across competitions this season, but only three have been starts. He is no longer indispensable for Barcelona, who are well stocked in the middle of the park.
Liverpool are eyeing the situation with interest, as the player could be a fine fit in Arne Slot's system. However, De Jong's steep wages could pose a problem. Should the player want the move to Anfield, he may have to accept a reduced pay package.
