Barcelona have started establishing their list of potential targets for the summer transfer window, which should be a busy one now that they are finally back within La Liga’s 1:1 rule. One area that is likely to be addressed is left wing, with club bosses keen for a big-name signing in the position.
Rafael Leao continues to lead the pack in this regard, but another player that Barcelona continue to keep tabs on is Luis Diaz. Sporting director Deco is a huge fan of the Colombian international, whom he wanted to sign from Liverpool last summer before a deal was eventually deemed to be unviable.
According to TEAMtalk (via MD), Barcelona intend to re-ignite their interest in Diaz at the end of the season. Although he has been a regular starter for Liverpool this season, there is a chance that he could be sold on in the summer as Cody Gakpo has established himself as the primary left winger for Arne Slot’s side, who are currently leading the Premier League.
However, it will not be easy for Barcelona to sign Diaz, and not only because of their well-documented financial woes. The report goes on to say that Saudi Arabia is showing strong interest in the 28-year-old, with Al Hilal and Al-Nassr being the clubs most keen at this stage.
Al Hilal are seeking a Neymar Junior replacement, with the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain winger having terminated his contract earlier this year to return to boyhood club Santos. Meanwhile, Al-Nassr want to re-unite Diaz with Colombia teammate Jhon Duran, who signed from Aston Villa in January.
While Diaz is a very good player, he is certainly not an upgrade on Raphinha in the left wing position at Barcelona. It would surely make more sense for a better option to be targeted, and thus, leave Saudi Arabia with a clear run to negotiate with Liverpool. Barcelona will be able to see Diaz in action against Everton – click here to get tickets.
