Swap deal: Liverpool wants Barcelona midfielder for Luis Diaz and Laporta is likely to agree

As the summer transfer window approaches, one of the most intriguing stories gaining momentum in the football world revolves around a potential swap deal between two European giants—Barcelona and Liverpool. At the heart of this unfolding drama are two high-profile players: Luis Díaz, Liverpool’s dynamic winger, and Frenkie de Jong, Barcelona’s midfield maestro.

Barcelona’s interest in Luis Díaz isn’t new. The Catalan club has been monitoring the Colombian international for several months, attracted by his explosive pace, technical brilliance, and attacking threat. Díaz has been a consistent performer in the Premier League and on the European stage, and Barcelona believes he could fit seamlessly into their evolving front line.

The rumors gained further weight when Díaz’s father openly revealed last year that his son dreams of playing for Barcelona. That emotional admission fueled speculation that a future transfer to Spain was not only possible but likely—if the conditions aligned.

On the other side, Liverpool has never hidden its admiration for Frenkie de Jong. The Dutch midfielder has long been on Jürgen Klopp’s radar as a perfect addition to Liverpool’s engine room. With his ball progression, vision, and calmness under pressure, De Jong would undoubtedly bring a new dimension to the Reds’ midfield.

The growing speculation now centers on a possible player-plus-cash swap—Barcelona signing Díaz in exchange for sending De Jong to Anfield. According to reports from Fichajes, Liverpool has set a price tag of €80 million (£67 million) for Díaz, a fee deemed too steep for cash-strapped Barcelona.

Despite financial limitations, Barcelona remains keen to land Díaz this summer. With strict FFP regulations and internal budget constraints, the club is reportedly “exploring various avenues” to bring the winger to Camp Nou—including including players in the deal.

Frenkie de Jong, despite his undeniable quality, may become a sacrificial piece in this negotiation. His contract is set to expire in the summer of 2026, but if he refuses to extend, Barcelona risks losing him at a significantly reduced price—or even for free the following year.

Sources close to the negotiations suggest that Liverpool could be willing to part with Díaz if De Jong is involved, either in a straight swap or a deal involving a reduced cash fee. Earlier this year, Spanish media outlets claimed that Liverpool were ready to offer €40 million (£34 million) for De Jong, signaling that a mutual valuation could be within reach.

De Jong’s future has often been clouded by contract talks and injury interruptions, and despite Xavi and Laporta repeatedly showing faith in him, the arrival of Ilkay Gündogan and the emergence of Gavi and Fermín López have increased competition in midfield.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta, a known admirer of Díaz, is believed to be open to the idea of such a swap if it ensures balance in the squad and reduces the club’s wage bill. The sale of De Jong would free up significant salary space, enabling Barcelona to register new players or extend contracts.

The possibility of seeing Díaz in Barcelona colors next season is growing stronger, especially with manager Hansi Flick reportedly impressed by the winger’s versatility and work rate. His ability to play on both flanks or behind the striker gives tactical flexibility to a coach still shaping his ideal XI.

On Liverpool’s end, Klopp is preparing for the possibility of an attacking overhaul, especially if Mohamed Salah eventually departs for Saudi Arabia. Adding a technically gifted midfielder like De Jong could allow Liverpool to return to their dominating, possession-based style while refreshing their identity.

There’s also a strategic component at play. With Barcelona keen on rebuilding without compromising long-term financial stability, player swaps offer a rare opportunity to reinforce the squad while managing costs.

Yet, as with all blockbuster transfers, several hurdles remain. De Jong would have to agree to personal terms with Liverpool—a move to England he has previously been hesitant about. Similarly, Díaz would need to be convinced of Barcelona’s sporting project amid ongoing financial uncertainties.

Still, the increasing noise around this swap deal cannot be ignored. Both clubs have strong reasons to pursue it, both sporting and financial. And with the summer transfer window just weeks away, fans on both sides are bracing for a potential shake-up.

Should this deal materialize, it could prove to be one of the most clever and balanced transfers of the summer. A win-win that sees both clubs reinforce where they most need—with the bonus of players fulfilling long-held dreams.

All eyes are now on Joan Laporta and Liverpool’s board. Will they strike a deal that shocks Europe? Or will it remain another tantalizing “what could have been”?

Only time will tell.