Luis Diaz admitted to having talks with Barcelona over a possible move from Liverpool in the summer transfer window before the 28-year-old winger joined Bayern Munich. The Colombian had been on Barca's list of targets as they pursued a new attacker but ultimately lost out as he pushed for Liverpool to accept the German club's bid instead.
Luis Diaz confirms Barcelona talks in the summer
Buzzing from Bayern's latest win against Chelsea in the opening fixture of the Champions League, the Bayern attacker confirmed that Barcelona were chasing his signature this summer. However, he chose to join Bayern instead as he believed it was an best decision for his career, signing a four-year contract upon a €70 million (£60m/$82m) transfer.
AdvertisementGetty ImagesDiaz is extremely happy having joined Bayern Munich
Diaz told : "I am very happy to be at this great club. There have been talks [with Barca], as is usual in the market, with several teams. I made an objective decision about my future, and the most important thing is that I'm coming to a great club. So I'll try to do my best."
Diaz, on his win against Chelsea, said: "I'm very happy with the win; it lives up to our expectations. A start like this is important for the team to stay calm. Now it's time to rest."
Barcelona's pursuit of a winger this summer
Barca's pursuit of a winger during the summer 2025 transfer window began with strong interest in Liverpool's Diaz, considered a top target, but talks stalled due to Liverpool's unwillingness to negotiate. The focus then shifted to Athletic Club's Nico Williams, leading to a month-long saga that collapsed over his insistence on an exit clause and registration guarantees, after which he extended his stay at Bilbao. In the end, the Blaugrana turned to Manchester United's Marcus Rashford, securing him on a season-long loan with an option to buy-a pragmatic move shaped by financial and registration constraints.
AFPWhat lies ahead for Diaz and Barcelona
While Diaz has won his opening Champions League clash against Chelsea, Barca are heading to St. James' Park to face Newcastle on Thursday without teenage star Lamine Yamal. However, coach Hansi Flick is optimistic, with Rashford starting in his place for this crucial match.