Arne Slot seems to be keeping one of his biggest talents despite interest from top clubs
One of Liverpool’s most important players has reportedly made a dramatic turn regarding his future, despite strong interest from a Spanish big club.
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Surprising decision after title cheers
After securing their 20th English championship with a Premier League win over Tottenham in the previous round, Liverpool are undoubtedly already planning for the upcoming transfer window. While the main focus will be on bringing in new players to defend the newly won championship, they will also need to consider selling some of the current players to make room for new reinforcements.
But one player who appeared to be doomed to leave Anfield this summer has now reportedly changed his mind – despite interest from one of Europe’s biggest clubs. Having made just two transfers this season (one of which was immediately loaned out), Arne Slot has promised that his second summer as Liverpool manager will be significantly busier.
As for players on their way out, several reports have suggested that at least two of Luis Díaz, Darwin Núñez or Diogo Jota will leave the club this summer to give Slot the opportunity to bring in new attacking players – such as Swedish goal machine Alexander Isak.
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Barcelona in shock
However, according to Football365, Luis Díaz has made an unexpected decision to try and sign a new deal with Liverpool and stay at the club for the foreseeable future.
Throughout the season, it has been widely believed that the 28-year-old was on his way away from Liverpool, as contract renewal discussions seemed to have stalled – at the same time as clubs such as Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and several Saudi Arabian teams showed interest.
A Spanish media outlet now claims that the Colombian international (with 16 goals and 8 assists this season) was considered one of Barcelona’s “biggest wishes” and that club executives are shocked by his decision.
Feeling betrayed?
Díaz was reportedly seen as the ideal player for Hansi Flick’s new Barcelona team. The club is now said to feel “betrayed” after the player is considering an extension with Liverpool, despite talks with Barcelona throughout the season.
As of today, Díaz is tied to Liverpool until 2027, but Sky Sports confirms that negotiations for a contract extension will start this summer.
This marks a significant victory for Arne Slot, who seems to be able to keep one of the team’s most important offensive players – despite massive interest from abroad. A decision that will undoubtedly delight the faithful at Anfield.
