Liverpool faces Nico Williams competition amid Barcelona 'split' over Luis Diaz decision

Luis Diaz could be set to stay with Liverpool after reports suggested there could be a split at Barcelona over signing the Colombian this summer.

The Liverpool winger has been linked with a move to the Camp Nou during the transfer window. The 27-year-old is under contract at Anfield until 2027, although he’s still on the same deal he signed when he joined from Porto in 2022.

Diaz has already insisted he’s happy at Liverpool, although that hasn’t stopped speculation linking him with a move away in the coming weeks. His father hasn’t helped matters in that regard, having revealed that his son is a Barcelona fan and it would be his ‘dream’ to move to the Catalan club.

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It seems though that there might be a split at Camp Nou on the Colombia international. According to Spanish outlet Sport, Barcelona sporting director Deco feels a move for Diaz makes more sense than Nico Williams, who has also been linked with a move to the La Liga giant.

New Barcelona manager Hansi Flick though is said to be keener on Williams. In any case, given the club’s well-documented financial problems, they could struggle to strike a deal for either player.

In that case, Hull City winger Jaden Philogene is said to be an alternative solution, which could open the door again to Williams for Liverpool. The Athletic recently reported that the 21-year-old is not someone who is currently on the Reds’ radar, although he continues to be linked to Anfield.

If Barcelona is to follow Flick’s guidance though, the Catalan club could provide some competition for Williams’ signature.

Liverpool.com says: There does seem to be a fairly simple solution here. Liverpool keeps Diaz, Barcelona targets either Williams or Philogene, and both clubs move on from the recent speculation.

Williams is an exciting prospect, but with Liverpool also having Cody Gakpo and Diogo Jota, there is no shortage of options on the left of the attack. Unless Diaz is to leave this summer, there are much bigger priorities to address in Arne Slot’s squad.