Barcelona sporting director Deco wants to sign Liverpool forward Luis Diaz, a player he deeply admires, by selling forward Raphinha

Barcelona wants to replace Raphinha with Liverpool forward Luis Diaz during the summer, deeply admired by their sporting director Deco. The Spanish giant have struggled with finances that helped Liverpool beat them for Diaz when he played for FC Porto.

Diaz joined the Reds and immediately impressed the fans and the football experts with his dazzling skills and work ethic. However, the 27-year-old has faced criticism for lacking productivity despite getting at the end of many good chances for Liverpool.

Nevertheless, the Colombia international is a pivotal part of Liverpool’s attack and a regular first-team starter under Jurgen Klopp. Things could change as the legendary manager has departed from the club and new head coach Arne Slot takes charge.

Diaz’s father fueled the transfer rumours by sharing his son’s admiration towards Barcelona and the opportunity to play in Spain. The Colombian has struggled with the language barrier which could be one of the mitigating factors for his poor productivity.

The 27-year-old has 51 appearances in all competitions for Liverpool last season, contributing 13 goals and five assists. According to the Spanish publication AS, Barcelona wants Diaz as a priority signing by financing the deal through Raphinha’s departure.

Diaz is one of the top assets at the club and the Reds would demand a high price for him. Liverpool’s attacking department struggled with wastefulness during the last season which cost them dearly in the end.

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Liverpool would want to replace their star attacker if he opts to leave and they successfully negotiate a worthy price. The Reds have Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo as the forwards capable of filling the left-wing role apart from Diaz. One thing is for certain, Liverpool fans are going to miss their dazzling Colombian if he opts to exit. Diaz is a fan-favourite and the fans would understand his willingness to go to a Spanish-speaking club.