Report: Long-awaited Contract Talks Finally Set For Liverpool Star | OneFootball

Luis Diaz’s Stellar Form Sparks Contract Talks at Anfield

Luis Diaz, the electrifying Colombian winger, has been a revelation at Liverpool since his arrival in January 2022. With a combination of flair, skill, and work ethic, he’s quickly become a fan favourite. Recent reports from TEAMtalk confirm that Liverpool are now preparing to offer Diaz a new contract, following his explosive start to the 2024-25 season. This move comes as a strategic play to fend off interest from Europe’s elite, including Barcelona, who were linked with him over the summer.

Diaz’s current contract runs until 2027, but Liverpool are keen to reward his performances and secure his long-term future with the club. The timing is significant, as Diaz has already netted five goals and provided one assist in his first five Premier League matches this season, marking a statement of intent under new manager Arne Slot.

Why Diaz’s New Contract Is Crucial for Liverpool

Liverpool’s pursuit of a new deal for Diaz demonstrates just how vital he has become to the team’s future plans. After a somewhat turbulent summer, which saw rumours swirling about Barcelona’s interest, this contract offer feels like a key moment in the Reds’ strategy to keep their core intact.

As TEAMtalk report, Liverpool were initially frustrated by Diaz’s camp “actively encouraging the Barcelona speculation.” However, it seems that this is now water under the bridge. The club recognises his immense value on the pitch, and it’s crucial to show him their commitment through a contract extension.

Football Insider confirmed that Liverpool have been “given the green light” to commence talks, and this is exactly the kind of statement Liverpool need to make at this time. Diaz is seen as a player for the future, and ensuring his long-term presence at Anfield could be essential for Arne Slot’s vision for the club. Slot is attempting to restore Liverpool to the top of English football, and keeping key figures like Diaz will be a fundamental part of that journey.

Photo: IMAGO

Diaz Open to Contract Extension

It’s not just Liverpool pushing for a new deal; Diaz himself seems keen on staying at the club. According to TEAMtalk, sources close to the player suggest he is open to signing an extension and is “fully focused on making Arne Slot’s tenure a successful one.”

His willingness to remain at Liverpool is particularly important given the interest from other European heavyweights. Diaz could easily have his head turned by the glamour of clubs like Barcelona, but his happiness at Anfield speaks volumes about the environment that Liverpool have built, despite the managerial change.

The contract is expected to be a two-year extension, which would take him through until 2029, ensuring that his prime years are spent in a Liverpool shirt. While there is no immediate rush for an agreement, Liverpool will be eager to finalise terms sooner rather than later to prevent any unsettling rumours from resurfacing.

Liverpool’s Other Contract Concerns: Alexander-Arnold and Salah

Luis Diaz’s contract situation isn’t the only one Liverpool need to address in the coming months. Talks are already ongoing with Trent Alexander-Arnold, one of the club’s most vital players. With his contract set to expire at the end of the season, Liverpool find themselves in a precarious position.

TEAMtalk reports that Real Madrid have been in “constant contact” with Alexander-Arnold’s camp, raising the stakes for the Reds. Losing the dynamic right-back would be a huge blow for Liverpool, and the club will be desperate to tie him down to a new deal. Fortunately, sources suggest that Alexander-Arnold is happy at Anfield, so there is hope that a deal can be struck before January.

The same cannot be said for Mohamed Salah, whose future looks increasingly uncertain. It’s been widely reported that Salah is likely to leave for Saudi Arabia next summer if no new deal is agreed. His potential departure would leave a gaping hole in Liverpool’s attacking options, making the retention of players like Diaz all the more crucial. Virgil van Dijk, too, is out of contract next summer, and Liverpool face an uphill battle to secure both players for the long term.

Diaz’s Journey So Far: A Timeline of Success

Diaz’s time at Liverpool has been nothing short of impressive. Signed from Porto in January 2022 for an initial £37.5 million, Diaz wasted no time in making his mark at Anfield. In his first season, he helped Liverpool secure both the EFL Cup and the FA Cup, and his contributions were vital in the Reds’ run to the Champions League final.

His early success was followed by a challenging 2022-23 season, during which he suffered a significant knee injury, keeping him sidelined for seven months. Despite this setback, Diaz has bounced back stronger than ever. His performances in the early part of the 2024-25 season suggest that he’s ready to take his game to the next level.

Slot’s Liverpool side has already seen the Colombian star become a key figure, and as the season progresses, it’s likely that he will play an even more prominent role in their quest for silverware.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

The prospect of securing Luis Diaz’s future at Anfield is thrilling. The Colombian has quickly become one of our most exciting players, and watching him dazzle down the left wing week in, week out is a joy. His performances this season have been nothing short of sensational, and it’s clear that he’s only getting better.

The idea of losing Diaz to a club like Barcelona would have been devastating. So, hearing that contract talks are imminent and that he’s keen to stay is music to every fan’s ears. With the uncertainty surrounding Mo Salah’s future, it’s more important than ever that Liverpool lock down key players like Diaz who can carry the team forward.

Diaz’s ability to turn defenders inside out, his eye for goal, and his relentless work rate have endeared him to the Kop faithful. Under Arne Slot, he’s been given the freedom to express himself, and it’s paying dividends. Slot is building something special at Liverpool, and Diaz will be an integral part of that project.

In short, Diaz signing a new deal would be a huge win for Liverpool, and it would send a clear message to the rest of the league – we’re not going anywhere. With Manchester City and Arsenal fighting for the title, keeping hold of a talent like Diaz could be the difference in this tight race.