
Anfield Index
·22 May 2025
Report: Barcelona Target Liverpool Ace in Summer Move

Anfield Index
·22 May 2025
Barcelona sporting director Deco has stirred the transfer pot once again, admitting that the Catalan giants remain keen on Liverpool winger Luis Diaz. While Diaz himself has remained professional, consistently expressing happiness at Anfield, speculation linking him with a move to Camp Nou refuses to disappear.
Barcelona’s fascination with Diaz is not new. Joan Laporta, club president, previously admitted the Colombian winger was one of his initial targets upon returning to Barcelona in 2021. Diaz, then at Porto, eventually moved to Liverpool for a substantial €47 million fee, beating the Catalans to the punch. This early interest laid the foundations for ongoing transfer speculation.
Photo: IMAGO
Deco’s recent comments to RAC1, as quoted by Barca Blaugranes, have reignited these conversations:
“Talking about players who have contracts with other clubs is complicated out of respect. We like Luis [Diaz], we like [Marcus] Rashford and we like other players. When we go to the market there are names that we know and that could improve the team.”
Liverpool have undoubtedly benefited from Diaz’s skillset, with the winger pivotal in recent successes, including securing an FA Cup, two League Cups, and a Premier League title. However, unresolved contract negotiations—his current deal expiring in 2027—continue to fuel speculation. Barcelona view this hesitation as an opportunity, despite recent reports suggesting Liverpool are keen to restart contract talks.
Deco further elaborated on Barcelona’s transfer strategy, emphasising internal growth and renewals:
“Our big priority is to strengthen what we have at home, renewals of Pedri, Gavi, Araujo, Raphinha, Koundé. I understand that when people talk about signings they always think about players coming from abroad, but for me renewals are also signings. Lamine is the best signing in history.”
Diaz’s blend of creativity, pace, and resilience would unquestionably bolster Barcelona’s attacking options, providing a “different profile” that Deco identifies as essential. However, integrating Diaz would depend heavily on Barcelona’s financial manoeuvres and Liverpool’s willingness to negotiate.
For now, Diaz remains a beloved figure at Liverpool, known for his vibrant attacking displays and tireless work ethic, qualities that have endeared him deeply to supporters on Merseyside.
With Barcelona’s intentions clear and Liverpool yet to cement Diaz’s future, this summer promises significant developments. Liverpool’s next steps regarding contract negotiations could determine whether Diaz continues his legacy at Anfield or embarks on a new chapter at Camp Nou.
From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, Barcelona’s persistent interest in Luis Diaz brings mixed feelings. While it’s flattering that our players are admired by Europe’s top clubs, the idea of losing Diaz—a proven match-winner and fan favourite—raises serious concerns. The Colombian has consistently showcased commitment and passion, becoming integral to Liverpool’s recent triumphs. The stalled contract talks have admittedly been frustrating for supporters, leading to anxiety about the potential of losing such a vital player.
Moreover, Deco’s openness about Barcelona’s admiration seems strategic, potentially unsettling Diaz or pressuring Liverpool into quicker negotiations. The Reds must act decisively, securing Diaz’s future to avoid distractions ahead of crucial seasons. It’s reassuring to hear the club intends to reopen discussions soon, as losing Diaz would severely impact squad depth and attacking dynamism. Liverpool must prioritise tying Diaz down with a new, improved contract, reaffirming their ambitions and demonstrating their intent to maintain their position among Europe’s elite.