Barcelona 'hatch' Luis Diaz transfer plan as key reasons behind interest in Liverpool star emerge

Barcelona reportedly remain interested in signing Liverpool winger Luis Diaz and are prepared to 'sacrifice' former Leeds United winger Raphinha to make this transfer possible.

The La Liga giants have identified two priority positions for the summer, one of which being the left wing role Raphinha is currently operating in. Barcelona believe Diaz represents the ideal arrival to strengthen this area, in addition to having a 'perfect age' plus 'technical quality and power' to bring to the team.

That is according to a latest report by Mundo Deportivo, who add the Spanish side are 'playing with the player's desire' to join the club - as hinted by his father in an interview late last year.

LIVE: Florian Wirtz future, Alexander Isak claim, Luis Diaz interest

READ MORE: Liverpool notebook - Arne Slot unveiling date latest as FSG 'blank canvas' takes shape

The above article explains Raphinha holds the key to Barcelona making a move for Diaz, with the Brazilian susceptible to being moved on if a suitable offer arrives. It is believed the former Leeds star has already received a proposal from Saudi Arabia, though has chosen to reject this.

Diaz is also understood to be a target for Saudi Arabian clubs as they continue their mission to bring the world's best players to the Middle East. The Daily Mail suggested both Diaz and Joe Gomez 'could be open' to leaving Liverpool this summer, with the Saudi Pro League of the view there is an 'opportunity' to test the Reds' resolve in the market following Jurgen Klopp's' departure.

Liverpool could also have to manage offers for Alisson Becker and Mohamed Salah, who are both also being targeted for moves to the Middle East. The Reds rejected an offer of £150million from Al-Ittihad on transfer deadline day last September for Salah, who is about to enter the final 12 months of his current deal at Anfield.