Report: Barcelona launch move for Liverpool's Luis Diaz after transfer setback

The La Liga giants are eager to bolster their attacking options, despite their formidable trio of Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, and Lamine Yamal combining for an impressive 94 goals last season.

The Catalans had pinned their hopes on securing Williams, but the 22-year-old Spain international stunned them by signing a new 10-year contract with Athletic Club.

Frustrated by the rejection, Barcelona have vowed never to pursue Williams again and have swiftly shifted focus to Diaz, according to Mundo Deportivo. The Colombian, aged 28, is now their primary target, with sporting director Deco leading the charge to bring him to the Spotify Camp Nou.

Diaz, who has two years left on his Liverpool contract, has expressed a desire to play for a La Liga giant in the past. Recent reports indicate he feels let down by Liverpool's reluctance to offer him a new deal, especially given his modest weekly wage of 55,000 pounds.

Mundo Deportivo reported that Diaz's agent has informed Barcelona they are prepared to push hard for a move, signaling the player's intent to leave Anfield.

However, any potential transfer is on hold following the tragic loss of Liverpool's Portugal forward Diogo Jota, who passed away in a car accident alongside his brother. Liverpool have paused all transfer activity as they mourn, with Jota's funeral scheduled for Saturday. The club are also providing support to Jota's family and their squad during this difficult time.

Despite the pause, transfer speculation persists. Football journalist David Lynch suggested on his YouTube channel that Liverpool could consider offers for Diaz if an extraordinary bid is tabled. "Liverpool have said he's not for sale, but there's always a price," Lynch said. "If crazy money comes in, especially early in the window when they have time to find a replacement, they might be open to talks."

Lynch highlighted that a bid upwards of 70 million pounds, potentially from Saudi club Al-Nassr, could tempt Liverpool. "At 28, with two years left on his contract, that kind of money might make them think," he added. "It would give them funds to pursue a top striker like Alexander Isak, though that deal would also be costly."

Barcelona's interest in Diaz has also impacted Manchester United's transfer plans, with Marcus Rashford reportedly falling to a secondary option for the Catalans.

Meanwhile, Liverpool are eyeing Paris Saint-Germain's Hugo Ekitike as a potential replacement should Diaz depart, with the young French striker high on their list.

Recent posts on X have fueled the speculation. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano shared that Barcelona are planning a fresh approach for Diaz in the coming days or weeks, noting that Liverpool have already rebuffed interest from both Barcelona and Bayern Munich.

As the transfer window heats up, Barcelona's pursuit of Diaz promises to be a saga to watch, but Liverpool's firm stance and the emotional weight of recent events may complicate negotiations.