Luis Díaz might be playing right into Liverpool's hands after transfer claims

Liverpool stands a very good chance of welcoming a Copa America champion back in to the fold before the start of 2024/25. The Reds have four players at the tournament, with their countries all having made good starts to the competition. In the opinion of the bookmakers, the nations in question are the four favorites to win the trophy.

Arguably the biggest impression has been made by Darwin Núñez, who has scored in both of Uruguay’s matches. There’s also Alexis Mac Allister, who assisted the opening goal of the tournament for Argentina, and Alisson Becker of Brazil who is performing well.

Another Liverpool player having a good time at the Copa America is Luis Díaz. He is one of just four players who have completed at least six dribbles and taken at least five shots. When you’re in a quartet that contains Lionel Messi, you’re probably doing something right. Díaz’ impact at the tournament might have an impact upon the transfer business the Reds are able to conduct this summer, and if not, there could be a different kind of benefit.

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Díaz had a relatively quiet game in Colombia’s opener, a 2-1 win over Paraguay. The Liverpool No.7 was the only member of his team who carried the ball into the box, though, doing so twice. He also used his dribbling skills to link up well with Daniel Muñoz of Crystal Palace, the pair generating a couple of chances between them.

The former Porto winger was more involved against Costa Rica on Friday, opening the scoring from the penalty spot. Diaz’ efforts earned him an 8.0 rating from Sofascore, putting him just 0.2 behind its player of the match, Colombia captain James Rodríguez. As well as grabbing a goal, Liverpool’s left forward also completed two more dribbles and only misplaced three of his attempted passes.

Bigger tests are to come if the Colombians are to win the tournament, of course. However, strong performances in international competitions have been known to push up transfer prices. Díaz is both Liverpool’s joint-most valuable asset, at least according to Transfermarkt, and arguably its player being most heavily linked with an exit this summer.

He is under contract for three more seasons so the Reds have no need to accept any kind of lowball bid from another club. An impressive Copa America for the 27-year-old only strengthens Liverpool’s hand at the table.

And it’s a win-win situation. Díaz will take confidence from a strong summer, and that will ratchet up exponentially if Colombia lift the trophy on July 14. New head coach Arne Slot is known for making good use of wingers and may inherit one in red hot form and with sky-high confidence the way things are going.

Liverpool.com says: It wouldn't be a shock if Liverpool were open to selling Díaz if the fee offered was a very decent one. His summer form suggests his value demands an even bigger bid but also that he could be a strong asset for Slot. Richard Hughes will be delighted either way.