Update: Barcelona Eyes Luis Diaz in Potential Swap Deal with Liverpool
Barcelona is contemplating a potential swap deal with Liverpool involving Luis Diaz, as Deco faces pressure to offload a key player.
Barcelona’s manager is reportedly keen to strengthen his squad for the 2024/25 season and has his sights set on Liverpool’s talented winger, Luis Diaz. To secure Diaz, Barcelona might propose a swap deal with their winger, Raphinha, heading to Liverpool.
This summer, Barcelona aims to enhance their left-wing options, identifying Diaz as an ideal addition. Despite a disappointing season—finishing second in La Liga and being knocked out of the Champions League by PSG in the quarter-finals—Barcelona remains determined to rebuild and compete at the highest level.
By offering Raphinha in the deal, Barcelona hopes to attract Liverpool’s interest. This potential transfer could benefit both clubs by giving each winger a fresh start in a new environment.
Deco believes Diaz has the qualities needed to excel on the left wing, including personality, technical skill, and power. Additionally, he admires Diaz’s work rate and defensive contribution. However, Diaz is currently unsettled at Anfield following Jurgen Klopp’s departure, despite having three years left on his contract.
To acquire Diaz, Barcelona would need to part with Raphinha, who is highly regarded by Deco. Last season, Raphinha scored 10 goals and provided 13 assists in 37 appearances. Although primarily a right winger, he has occasionally played on the left.
Raphinha, a 27-year-old Brazilian, joined Barcelona from Leeds two years ago, rejecting offers from Saudi Arabia. Premier League clubs are now interested in him, but Barcelona will only let him go if they secure a replacement left winger.
During his time at Leeds, Raphinha scored 17 goals and provided 12 assists in 65 appearances, though he couldn’t prevent the team’s relegation in 2023.
Liverpool’s new manager, Arne Slot, is reportedly interested in signing Raphinha if Diaz leaves. There are hints that Slot is preparing for Diaz’s departure, as Diaz’s father has mentioned his son’s desire to play for Barcelona.
Luis Diaz Sr. admitted limited knowledge about Barcelona but acknowledged his son’s dream of playing for the club. He expressed gratitude to Porto and Liverpool for their support of Luis, praising his humility, hard work, and dedication, and believes his son would thrive at Barcelona.