In a dramatic turn of events, Liverpool have decisively shut down Barcelona’s attempt to sign their star winger, Luis Díaz, signaling their intent to keep the Colombian international at Anfield for the 2025-26 season. However, a lingering contract issue could yet see Díaz slip through their fingers, potentially allowing Barcelona or other suitors to capitalize on a shocking clause that has left fans and analysts stunned.
Liverpool’s Resolute Stance
On Wednesday, June 4, 2025, Barcelona’s sporting director Deco reached out to Liverpool officials to discuss a potential transfer for the 28-year-old winger, who played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s Premier League title triumph last season, contributing 13 goals and seven assists in the league alone. The response from Anfield was unequivocal: Díaz is not for sale. Head coach Arne Slot views the versatile forward, capable of playing both on the left flank and as a central striker, as a cornerstone of his plans for the upcoming season.
Liverpool’s firm rejection of Barcelona’s approach aligns with their broader strategy under sporting director Richard Hughes and Fenway Sports Group’s chief executive of football, Michael Edwards. The club has already bolstered its squad with high-profile signings, including a £29.5 million deal for Dutch right-back Jeremie Frimpong and a potential club-record £109 million move for Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz. With key players like Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk recently signing new contracts until 2027, Liverpool are focused on maintaining a competitive edge, and Díaz is seen as integral to that ambition.
The Shocking Contract Clause
Despite Liverpool’s resolute stance, a critical issue looms over Díaz’s future: his contract, which runs until the summer of 2027, has not progressed toward an extension. With only two years remaining, the lack of movement on a new deal has raised eyebrows, particularly as reports suggest Liverpool are prepared to let Díaz see out his contract, even if it means he could leave as a free agent in 2027. This strategy, while not uncommon under Fenway Sports Group’s ownership—seen previously with players like Gini Wijnaldum and Roberto Firmino—has sparked concern among fans, especially given Díaz’s importance and market value.
The shocking twist lies in a reported clause in Díaz’s contract that could allow him to negotiate with foreign clubs as early as January 2027 if no extension is agreed upon. Under FIFA’s Article 17, players can enter talks with overseas clubs in the final six months of their contracts, potentially allowing Barcelona or other suitors, such as Saudi Pro League clubs Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal, to secure Díaz without a transfer fee. This clause, while standard in many contracts, is particularly alarming for Liverpool, as Díaz’s stock remains high following his standout performances, including leading Colombia to the Copa América final in 2024.
Barcelona’s Persistent Interest and Saudi Temptation
Barcelona’s interest in Díaz is no fleeting fancy. The La Liga champions have long admired the winger’s pace, directness, and versatility, seeing him as a perfect fit for their attacking system under Hansi Flick. Díaz’s father has previously fueled speculation, stating that his son would have “no issue” joining an “elite club” like Barcelona. However, Barcelona’s financial constraints make a substantial bid this summer unlikely, with reports suggesting Liverpool would demand at least €70 million to even consider negotiations.
Meanwhile, Saudi Pro League clubs, flush with cash, pose a different threat. Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal have been linked with Díaz, and a recent £100 million offer for Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes has helped Liverpool gauge Díaz’s market value, potentially exceeding that figure. Despite the allure of lucrative wages, Díaz has expressed a preference for staying at the top level of European football, making a move to Catalonia more appealing than the Middle East.
Díaz’s Stance and Liverpool’s Dilemma
Díaz himself has remained diplomatic but open about his future. Speaking while on international duty with Colombia, he reiterated his happiness at Liverpool, saying, “I’m very happy there at Liverpool, I’ve always said so. They’ve welcomed me very well.” However, he also hinted at uncertainty, adding, “The transfer market is opening, and we’re trying to arrange what’s best for us. I’m waiting to see what happens. If Liverpool gives us a good extension or I have to see out my two-year contract, I’ll be happy.”
This ambivalence has fueled speculation, with some reports claiming Díaz’s agent has resisted Liverpool’s efforts to extend his contract, potentially pushing for a move to Barcelona. Yet, reliable sources indicate neither Díaz nor Liverpool are actively seeking a transfer, with the club prioritizing a new long-term deal. The lack of progress on contract talks, however, leaves the door ajar for suitors to exploit the situation.
What’s Next for Liverpool and Díaz?
Liverpool’s strategy appears to be one of calculated risk. By rejecting Barcelona’s approach and prioritizing Díaz’s contributions over the next two seasons, they aim to maximize his value on the pitch, even if it means potentially losing him for free in 2027. This approach has drawn criticism, particularly in light of the recent departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold on a free transfer, which left fans frustrated.
For now, Díaz remains a Liverpool player, and his performances—17 goals and eight assists across all competitions last season—underline his importance to Slot’s squad. However, the unresolved contract situation and the looming possibility of foreign clubs negotiating directly with Díaz in 2027 cast a shadow over his future at Anfield.
As the transfer window heats up, Liverpool face a delicate balancing act: secure Díaz’s long-term commitment or risk losing one of their brightest stars for nothing. For Barcelona and other interested parties, the clock is ticking to test Liverpool’s resolve with a blockbuster offer—or wait for the contract clause to potentially “steal” Díaz away.