Transfer TWIST could see €80m Liverpool star leave

Liverpool could be set for a massive transfer boost - because Luis Diaz to Barcelona is suddenly back on the table.

While the Catalans’ sporting director Deco always maintained that Diaz was his No1 pick for attacking reinforcements, it was well known that the Spanish champions would have trouble getting a deal over the line.

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Barca’s financial woes have been well covered and they would require sales before any deal for Diaz could be completed.

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Combine that with Liverpool’s asking price - said to be €80m - and Diaz’s salary costs and you could see why Barca walked away from any potential deal.

Nico Williams to Barca in doubt

Instead the Blaugrana opted to tie up a quick deal for Nico Williams. The Athletic Club winger was viewed as a more achievable target - given he had a €60m release clause in his contract.

But the latest reports in Spain suggest that Athletic are dragging their feet over the deal.

They believe Barcelona are not in compliance with LaLiga’s so-called 1:1 rule and cannot do a deal for the Spain international.

Athletic want to BLOCK Nico transfer

“Radio Bilbao indicated that Athletic Club is willing, if necessary, to go head-to-head with Barcelona. It won't be satisfied if Barça simply pays the player's full release clause; it will also demand that LaLiga and the Federation prohibit the transfer unless the club strictly complies with current regulations,” a report on FCBN reads.

If the situation deteriorates and Barca decide they cannot do business with Athletic over Nico, then we may expect Diaz to be back on the table.

The 28-year-old Colombian, out of contract in 2027, has a clear preference for a Barcelona move.

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Liverpool need some money in order to conduct the next phase of their transfer plan. If they are willing to drop their asking price in line with what Barca can afford, then an outgoing deal would benefit all concerned.