Liverpool manager Arne Slot confirmed that Luis Díaz did not participate in the club’s preseason friendly against AC Milan due to ongoing transfer speculation surrounding the Colombian forward. Despite training well, Slot stated the decision to withhold Díaz from matches was because of the many rumors linking him away from Liverpool this summer. Díaz, who had a prolific previous season, helping Liverpool win the Premier League with 17 goals, is reportedly determined to leave the club in the current transfer window, with Bayern Munich keen to secure his signature after an initial €67.5 million bid was rejected by Liverpool.

On July 30, 2025, Díaz posted an emotional farewell message on Instagram following his transfer to Bayern Munich for a reported £65.5 million. He thanked Liverpool fans, teammates, and coaches, calling Liverpool a “special team” and highlighted a touching tribute to his close friend and former teammate, Diogo, whose tragic loss still weighs heavily on him. Díaz expressed pride in his three-and-a-half years at Liverpool and cherished the achievements they accomplished together.

Luis Díaz’s departure represents a significant gamble for Bayern Munich. The Colombian had expressed a desire to leave Liverpool since mid-2024, initially interested in a La Liga move, possibly to Barcelona, his father’s “dream.” Liverpool had considered letting Díaz go last summer, even attempting to sign a replacement, but the deal ultimately failed, leading to Díaz’s sustained key role in Liverpool’s Premier League-winning season. However, with just two years left on his Liverpool contract and wage negotiations proving challenging due to differing salary expectations, Liverpool ultimately accepted Bayern’s improved offer this summer.

Díaz was viewed as the natural successor to Sadio Mané at Liverpool, arriving shortly before Mané’s 2022 exit. He overcame early struggles to become Liverpool’s second-highest Premier League scorer last season behind Mohamed Salah, playing a vital role in Arne Slot’s attacking setup. While Liverpool sought to keep him, Díaz’s desire for a new challenge meant Bayern Munich was able to sign him, with Liverpool securing a substantial transfer profit on the deal.

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