Barcelona ditches Nico Williams for Liverpool star in shock summer move

Barcelona prioritizes Liverpool star Luis Diaz over Athletic Bilbao forward Nico Williams this summer, according to their journalist Fernando Polo.

Liverpool forward Luis Diaz is a preferred choice for Barcelona over Athletic Bilbao forward Nico Williams during the summer window. Barcelona have persistently followed Diaz even before he joined the Reds from FC Porto in January 2022 under Jurgen Klopp.

Diaz played as the first-choice left-winger under Klopp despite his several ups and downs due to injuries and personal issues. From the kidnapping incident of his now-safe parents last season to the perennial language barrier, Diaz maintained his first-team status.

The Reds fans adore the Colombia international for his captivating dribbling skills, progressive running, fluid play, and tireless work ethic. However, Diaz has received constant criticism for his lack of productivity in the final third with poor goals and assists.

Diaz has incredible technique to have such a struggle in front of the goal with language playing a mitigating factor. The Colombia international made 51 appearances last season in all competitions for Liverpool, contributing 13 goals and providing five assists.

According to Mundo Deportivo journalist Fernando Polo, Diaz is the favourable candidate over Athletic’s Williams to join Barcelona this summer. However, the Catalan giants need to sell Raphinha for a very high fee before they can sign Diaz from Liverpool.

Diaz’s father fueled the transfer rumours during the last season when he admitted the Colombian’s adoration for the Catalan club. However, Diaz has maintained that he is happy at Anfield, showing no signs of forcing a transfer to join Barcelona.

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Liverpool have Cody Gakpo as another left-winger and he thrived at the position during the latter stage of last season. The Dutchman has continued his impressive performance for the Netherlands in the Euro 2024 competition. Liverpool are in a strong position to extract full value for Diaz if he wishes to fulfil his childhood dream.