Liverpool attacker Luis Diaz is reportedly topping Barcelona's transfer shortlist. The Reds have been forced to field speculation over the Colombian winger in recent years following supposed growing interest from the La Liga giants.

In a report from Sport, following the departure of former manager and iconic midfielder Xavi, the 28-year-old has moved up their list of possible additions. It has been said that the former Porto forward is a priority for Barca as they look to strengthen their wide areas.

Last summer, they were heavily linked with a sensational move for Spain's European Championships hero Nico Williams but with the departure of Xavi, and the admiration from sporting director Deco, Diaz is now a contender for a possible move to La Liga.

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Reports in Colombia, namely from Antena 2, have cited that Barcelona expressed an interest to propose an offer for the attacker in the summer. However, it has been claimed that the Reds have cautiously opened talks with Diaz - whose contract has two-and-a-half years left - although, no progress has been made with the suggestion that there is a gap over financial demands.

Williams, it has been said, would set Barcelona back by €100million (£84m) with Diaz supposedly available in the region of €70million (£59m).

The Colombia star's versatility has been utilised in recent weeks, following injury and suspensions for Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez respectively. Diaz was deployed in the middle of a front three against Nottingham Forest but struggled in the position, despite having joy against West Ham United.

Diaz netted a maiden Champions League treble against Bayer Leverkusen in the striker position and his showing against the Bundesliga champions left Arne Slot surprised. He said in November: "Lucho did really well and if was, even for me, maybe a bit of a surprise to see how well he did.

"I played him there for a reason, I expected him to do good but that he played so well that was even a surprise for me."