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Liverpool Must Act Swiftly to Reward Luis Diaz Amid Growing Interest

Saudi Pro League Eyes Diaz as Summer Battle Brews

As the 2024/25 campaign draws to a close, the conversation at Anfield is shifting rapidly from results on the pitch to the futures of those wearing the red shirt. One such focus is Luis Diaz — a man who’s played his way into Liverpool folklore with relentless endeavour, thrilling footwork and a penchant for timely goals.

Diaz, whose current deal runs until 2027, is attracting growing attention from Saudi Arabian giants including Al-Hilal, Al-Ittihad and Al-Nassr, with Empire of the Kop reporting that “several bids” could land in the coming weeks. Barcelona also admire the Colombian, but financial realities mean they may hesitate. The threat from the Gulf, however, is both real and financially weighty.

Liverpool, England, 11th May 2025. Luis Diaz of Liverpool during the Liverpool vs Arsenal Premier League match at Anfield, Liverpool. Picture credit should read: Cody Froggatt / Sportimage EDITORIAL USE ONLY. No use with unauthorised audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or live services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications. SPI_048_CF_LIVERPOOL_V_ARSENAL SPI-3930-0048

CaughtOffside added fuel to the fire by revealing Al-Hilal’s interest, and while other clubs circle, Liverpool are reportedly preparing to act.

Contract Talks Signal Liverpool’s Intent

To pre-empt a bidding war, Anfield’s hierarchy, under new sporting director Richard Hughes and head coach Arne Slot, appear eager to offer Diaz a new contract, reportedly “with expectations of a significant pay rise.” Diaz himself seems open to the idea, telling reporters following the 2-2 draw with Arsenal that “the relevant parties will come together to negotiate over a prospective extension.”

Such timing is far from coincidental. Diaz has delivered consistently across the campaign, notching 17 goals despite being, according to Capology, “the lowest-paid forward in the Liverpool squad.”

His current wages — listed between £55,000 and £90,000 a week depending on the source — pale in comparison to team-mates such as Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez. It’s a disparity that won’t have escaped the Colombian’s camp, particularly when those peers have offered only marginally more in terms of output.

Arne Slot’s Approval May Prove Crucial

Slot’s endorsement could carry significant weight. “That’d surely be to Arne Slot’s liking,” reads the original report, noting how impressed the Dutch coach has been with the £50m man. In a new era post-Klopp, retaining elite-level players such as Diaz will be fundamental to both stability and progression.

With uncertainty over Mo Salah’s long-term future and Cody Gakpo’s consistency yet to fully settle, Diaz represents a reliable and well-integrated figure in Liverpool’s frontline. Offering him a deal that reflects his performances isn’t just a gesture — it’s a strategic necessity.

Wage Structure in Focus as Summer Approaches

Whether Diaz’s new deal crosses the £100,000-a-week threshold remains to be seen, but as Empire of the Kop rightly point out, this is about more than numbers. It’s about Liverpool showing ambition.

“Diaz earns comparatively little compared to his Liverpool teammates,” the report notes — a stark reality that, if unchanged, may only fuel temptation should Saudi Arabia’s financial muscle flex further.

With several suitors in waiting and Diaz now seen as a premium attacking threat, Liverpool’s best play might be the simplest: act fast, reward adequately, and build their future around a man whose star continues to rise.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

If there’s one thing Liverpool fans want from this new era, it’s decisiveness — and this situation is a real litmus test. Luis Diaz has not just met expectations this season, he’s exceeded them. His goal tally, his passion, and his consistency have put him in the upper echelon of the squad, even if his pay packet hasn’t followed suit.

The numbers being thrown around by the Saudi clubs are worrying, sure, but this doesn’t feel like a repeat of the Philippe Coutinho or Sadio Mane sagas — not if FSG move smartly. We’re not asking the club to shatter its wage structure, just to reflect Diaz’s worth within it.

The idea that our most in-form attacker is potentially earning less than half of what others take home weekly is almost laughable — and frankly dangerous in this transfer climate. This is precisely how you lose dressing room harmony and create exit paths for your best players.

Slot clearly rates Diaz. The fans adore him. So now it’s time for the board to put a contract in front of him that matches his influence. Waiting any longer only strengthens the Saudis’ case and weakens ours.