Barcelona ready to capitalise on Liverpool contract CHAOS

A new era began at Anfield when Arne Slot took charge of the Reds, and the Dutchman has enjoyed a successful few months in Merseyside.

A number of players have stepped their game up a level since the new boss arrived, with Ryan Gravenberch, Ibrahima Konate and Luis Diaz being notable examples.

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As is usually the case, the improved performances of certain individuals in Slot’s squad has led to increased interest from other teams.

Although Liverpool are currently facing the bleak prospect of potentially losing Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk on free transfers, reports are now emerging that another of the Reds' top stars could be on the way out.

Barcelona preparing a bid for Luis Diaz

According to a report from Antena2, Barcelona are preparing a bid for Diaz this summer, following on from interest over the last 12 months.

The report states that an offer of €70 million could be made for the 28-year-old and Barca will try and put the pressure on Liverpool to sanction the sale.

The logic that Barcelona have conveyed to Liverpool’s management is that “it is better to accept an offer for the Colombian player than to lose him as a free agent” according to the report.

Although this is a valid point, there is plenty of time remaining on Diaz’s contract so the Reds won’t be feeling too much pressure yet.

How likely is Diaz to move?

Diaz’s contract will not be a priority for Liverpool at this stage, especially with the high-profile contract saga currently ongoing, but a new deal will have to be agreed at some point if the Reds’ want to keep Diaz at Anfield long-term.

Antena2 claim that Diaz will want a greatly improved deal to reflect his important role in the squad under Slot, and it remains to be seen whether the Reds will sanction such a deal.

Anfield Watch revealed that Diaz was looking for €150,000 per week in preliminary talks with AC Milan.

Liverpool could be left with plenty of rebuilding to do this summer and, if all three of the out-of-contract trio were to leave on free transfers, the €70 million Barca are reportedly willing to offer could go a long way.

Diaz has been a mainstay in the Liverpool XI since Slot took charge and appears committed to the team so a departure doesn’t seem too likely at the moment, but a big bid from Barca could certainly test Richard Hughes’ resolve.

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