Barcelona has clear Luis Díaz 'plan' to meet Liverpool valuation as transfer decision awaits

Liverpool winger Luis Díaz remains the source of transfer speculation ahead of the summer window opening. Díaz has featured in 50 matches this season, with only Virgil van Dijk making more starts for the Reds.

His productivity has improved too, scoring 13 times and providing five assists, with Díaz stepping up to the plate in the middle of an injury crisis for Jürgen Klopp earlier in the campaign. But despite his notable progress, the Colombian's future at Anfield is unclear.

It was initially reported by The Telegraph last month that Díaz could leave this summer, with Paris Saint-Germain known to be admirers. Remarkably, the 27-year-old remains one of the lowest earners at the club, remaining on the same terms that he signed upon his arrival from Porto in 2022.

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It was stated that a decision over Díaz would be made this summer, with Liverpool likely to either offer him a new contract or move him on. The Reds would demand close to $94m (£75m/€87m) and PSG's need for an attacker is now greater with Kylian Mbappé leaving this summer.

Yet it now appears Barcelona is leading the chase. Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo reports the La Liga side has been told that Díaz wants to move to the Nou Camp, with a left winger high on Xavi's transfer wish list.

Barca's financial issues are well-known and at this stage it appears Liverpool's valuation would prove too high. But it is claimed there are plans in place to sell current members of the squad to fund a deal. The Catalan giants are also reportedly looking to seek improved deals with its sponsors, including kit manufacturers Nike.

The interest comes after Díaz's father said the Liverpool ace dreams of playing for Barcelona. He told Win Sports: "There would be no problem if Luis came to Barcelona because it is a top team and one of the best in the world. It is true that Luis is a loyal Barcelona fan and it would be his dream to go there."

Liverpool would of course need to replace Díaz if he was to depart this summer. The Athletic reports a wide attacker is already wanted by new sporting director Richard Hughes, ahead of Arne Slot's imminent arrival as head coach.

Liverpool.com says: Díaz has had a decent season at Anfield and has been one of the consistent figures in Klopp's side. Yet there is a feeling among some Liverpool supporters that an upgrade could be sought this summer. If the Reds' valuation is met, it would give the green light for money to be spent on incomings. It could ultimately be a deal that suits all parties.