Liverpool Star is a ‘Priority Target’ for Saudi Club in Mega-Money Move – Report | OneFootball

Luis Diaz in Demand: Saudi Interest Could Test Liverpool’s Resolve

Liverpool’s Luis Diaz is firmly in the spotlight this summer, with Saudi Arabian giants Al Nassr reportedly targeting the Colombian forward as their top priority in the upcoming transfer window. The talkSPORT exclusive by Alex Crook outlines a potential transfer twist that could disrupt Anfield’s summer plans as Arne Slot looks to retain his Premier League-winning squad.

Diaz’s Value Skyrockets as Summer Window Opens

Luis Diaz’s influence at Liverpool cannot be overstated. In a season that saw Arne Slot guide the Reds to their first Premier League title since 2020, the Colombian international played a pivotal role. Only Mohamed Salah outscored him in 2024/25, highlighting Diaz’s growing importance to Liverpool’s frontline.

Photo: IMAGO

At 28, Diaz still has two years remaining on his current £55,000-per-week contract, which runs until 2027. However, as talkSPORT rightly points out, the winger is “pushing for a new contract at Anfield.” This has opened the door to speculation, and Al Nassr’s interest adds a new layer of complexity to Liverpool’s contract negotiations.

Barcelona Interest Keeps Pressure on Liverpool

While Al Nassr’s emergence is headline-worthy, interest in Diaz is not limited to the Middle East. European heavyweight Barcelona are also in the mix, with sporting director Deco publicly acknowledging their admiration. “They like the forward,” Crook reports, signalling that competition for Diaz’s signature is heating up on multiple fronts.

Barcelona’s well-documented financial issues could make a move difficult, but they remain an alluring prospect for many South American players. Liverpool, aware of their interest, are understandably keen to tie Diaz down to a long-term deal and avoid the uncertainty that plagued other recent contract situations.

Saudi Arabia’s Growing Influence

Saudi clubs have made headlines with high-profile signings in recent years, and their interest in Diaz signifies an ongoing ambition to attract top-tier European talent. Al Nassr’s pursuit comes amid growing questions about Cristiano Ronaldo’s future, with talkSPORT noting that “Nassr’s interest comes at an interesting time, with talisman Cristiano Ronaldo hinting at a potential departure.”

Diaz, in his prime and arguably entering the peak of his career, represents a statement signing for the Saudi Pro League. His explosive pace, direct dribbling and tactical intelligence make him an attractive proposition for a league intent on raising its global profile.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool Face a Crucial Summer Decision

Liverpool’s challenge now lies in balancing player ambition, financial prudence, and team cohesion. With Diaz reportedly keen on a new deal and his market value holding strong, this summer could mark a defining moment in his Anfield career.

The club’s strategy, under the fresh guidance of Arne Slot, will need to be proactive. Allowing a key player to enter the final two years of his deal without resolution invites unwelcome transfer speculation. Given his contributions to the title-winning campaign, it would be surprising if Liverpool did not act swiftly to secure his services.

Crook writes: “Liverpool are aware of Al Nassr’s interest in the Colombian, who has been pushing for a new contract at Anfield.” That awareness must now translate into action.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool supporters, the idea of losing Luis Diaz now feels untimely, even jarring. His energy, flair, and commitment on the left flank have made him a fan favourite. While Salah continues to deliver, Diaz has emerged as a key attacking force, and with Jurgen Klopp’s era having closed just this past May, there’s an expectation that the club will preserve continuity under Slot rather than invite disruption.

Slot, who has made an immediate impact by clinching the league title in his debut season, will likely want Diaz central to his plans going forward. Letting him go would send the wrong signal about the club’s direction and ambition.

While a move to Saudi Arabia may appeal financially to the player, it would mark a significant step down in competitive terms. Diaz is a Champions League-calibre player, and his best years should be played under the European spotlight, not away from it. For many Liverpool fans, ensuring he remains at Anfield is about more than loyalty – it’s a footballing necessity.

The club must also consider the broader optics. Losing a top performer to a non-European league, especially in a summer when Liverpool are looking to build rather than rebuild, could create unnecessary headlines and damage squad morale.

It’s time for the Liverpool board to act decisively. Secure Diaz’s future. Reward his performances. Protect the core of this title-winning side.