Sports

Al-Nassr to Launch Bid for Liverpool’s Luis Díaz

Saudi Pro League giants Al-Nassr are preparing to submit a formal bid for Liverpool winger Luis Díaz, according to transfer expert Ben Jacobs. The ambitious move, backed by central funding approval from the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), signals Al-Nassr’s intent to bolster their attacking options by targeting one of the Premier League’s standout performers ahead of the 2025-26 season.

Jacobs reports that Al-Nassr have been given the green light to enter negotiations for the 28-year-old Colombian international, with a bid expected imminently. “A bid for Luis Díaz from Al-Nassr could be imminent after they have received central funding approval to enter negotiations as they aim to upgrade their attacking options by raiding the Premier League ahead of next season,” Jacobs stated.

The Saudi club, already home to global stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Wesley Teixeira, is looking to make a bold statement in the transfer market by luring Díaz away from Anfield.

Díaz, who joined Liverpool from FC Porto in January 2022 for a reported £37.5 million (potentially rising to £50 million with add-ons), has been a key figure for the Reds under both Jürgen Klopp and his successor, Arne Slot.

Known for his explosive pace, dribbling flair, and relentless work rate, the winger has contributed 24 goals and 13 assists in 98 Premier League appearances, becoming a fan favourite on Merseyside.

His versatility to operate on either flank, combined with his ability to deliver in high-stakes matches, has made him a cornerstone of Liverpool’s attacking setup.

However, Díaz’s future at Liverpool has been the subject of intense speculation in recent months. Since last season, the Colombian has been heavily linked with a move to Spanish giants Barcelona, with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano recently confirming that Díaz remains a “top target” for the Catalan club.

Barcelona’s interest has only intensified in recent weeks, fuelled by Díaz’s expressed admiration for the club and his childhood dream of playing at the Camp Nou.

Despite Liverpool’s reluctance to part with the winger, whose contract runs until 2027, the allure of a move to La Liga or a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia could test the Reds’ resolve.

Al-Nassr’s pursuit of Díaz shows the Saudi Pro League’s growing ambition to attract elite talent from Europe’s top leagues. Backed by significant financial resources, the club is reportedly prepared to offer a substantial transfer fee—potentially in the range of £60-70 million—to prise Díaz away from Liverpool.

Additionally, the promise of a lucrative contract, likely dwarfing his current £90,000-per-week wages at Liverpool, could prove tempting for the winger, who is approaching the peak of his career.

For Liverpool, the potential departure of Díaz would represent a significant blow, particularly as Arne Slot looks to build on the club’s strong start to the 2024-25 season.

The Reds currently finished top of the Premier League table and are preparing for a deep run in the Champions League, with Díaz playing a pivotal role in their high-pressing, attacking system.

Losing a player of his calibre mid-season or at the start of the summer transfer window could disrupt Liverpool’s momentum, especially with key fixtures looming in domestic and European competitions.

However, Liverpool’s strong negotiating position—bolstered by Díaz’s long-term contract—means they are under no immediate pressure to sell. The club’s hierarchy, led by sporting director Richard Hughes and FSG president Michael Edwards, is likely to demand a premium fee for the winger, particularly given his importance to the squad and the absence of a direct replacement in the current roster.

Any funds generated from a potential sale could be reinvested in strengthening other areas, with Liverpool previously linked to players like Anthony Gordon and Eberechi Eze as potential attacking reinforcements.

For Al-Nassr, signing Díaz would be a coup, adding a dynamic and proven Premier League star to their ranks as they aim to challenge for the Saudi Pro League title and make an impact in the AFC Champions League.

The club’s recruitment strategy, which has already seen them secure high-profile names, reflects their broader goal of elevating the league’s global profile. A potential partnership between Díaz and Ronaldo could form one of the most formidable attacking duos in Asian football, further boosting Al-Nassr’s domestic and continental aspirations.

Meanwhile, Barcelona’s interest adds another layer of complexity to the situation. The La Liga club, hampered by financial constraints in recent years, may struggle to match the financial muscle of Al-Nassr’s offer.

However, the prestige of playing for Barcelona and the opportunity to fulfil a lifelong dream could sway Díaz if the Spanish side can structure a viable deal. Reports suggest that Barcelona are exploring player-plus-cash options or staggered payment plans to compete in the race for the winger’s signature.

As the transfer saga unfolds, all eyes will be on Díaz’s performances for Liverpool and Colombia, where he remains a key figure ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers.

His focus, for now, is likely to remain on the pitch, but the coming weeks could prove decisive in determining whether he stays at Anfield, heads to Barcelona, or embarks on a new chapter in Saudi Arabia.

For Liverpool fans, the prospect of losing Díaz—a player who embodies the club’s high-energy, attacking ethos—would be a bitter pill to swallow.

For Al-Nassr, however, the opportunity to land a player of his calibre represents a chance to further elevate their project and make a bold statement in the global transfer market.

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