Raphinha plays key role in Liverpool winger’s potential Barcelona transfer – report

Journalist Fernando Polo has reported through Mundo Deportivo that while Barcelona appreciate Raphinha’s contributions to the team, they are willing to let him go if it means they can acquire Luis Diaz from Liverpool.

The outlet claims that Barcelona have identified two key positions that need strengthening for the next season, with one of them being the left winger. 

The team currently lacks a strong player in this position, prompting a thorough search in the market for the best possible candidate who can deliver top performance for the club and according to the sports department’s analysis, Diaz happens to be the ideal option.

Challenges in signing Luis Diaz

Despite Barcelona’s interest, there is a challenge in securing his services as he is under contract with Liverpool until 2027. 

This means Barcelona would need to make a significant investment to bring him in. To facilitate this move, Barcelona have pinpointed Raphinha as a potential bargaining chip.

Barcelona want to sign Luis Diaz. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

It is to be noted that Raphinha has had an impressive season, scoring 10 goals and providing 13 assists. 

Despite his success, however, the forward’s natural position is on the right wing, a spot that is almost certainly going to be occupied by Lamine Yamal in the future. 

There are offers from Raphinha

This makes Raphinha a candidate for transfer if a substantial offer comes in. In fact, he has already turned down a significant offer from Saudi Arabia but is expected to receive more offers.

Barcelona are aware that Raphinha will continue to attract attention from other clubs. In this scenario, they would only consider letting him go if it leads to an improvement on the left wing, a position where Barcelona currently lacks a natural player. 

For Deco and his team, bringing in Diaz would be that improvement. The sports director and his staff believe Diaz is at a perfect age and possesses the personality, technical skills, and power to excel on the left wing.