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Luis Diaz’s camp have been left surprised by the new stance from Liverpool’s hierarchy over a contract extension, Rousing The Kop can exclusively reveal.

Liverpool and Richard Hughes had previously indicated to Diaz and his representatives in January that a new deal was something they were willing to discuss.

Talks were loosely scheduled to take place at the end of the season, with Diaz believing his performances had warranted improved terms.

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However, RTK can confirm that Liverpool’s current stance is indeed that a new deal is no longer likely to progress at this point.

The Reds have rebuffed interest from Barcelona this week and it is understood that the Reds’ official position is that Diaz is not for sale.

Nevertheless, with interest in the Colombian also coming from the Saudi Pro League, Liverpool do have a figure in mind should an offer arrive.

Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images

Diaz enjoyed a good end to the season with Liverpool, ultimately finishing the campaign as their second top scorer in the Premier League.

Clearly, Arne Slot is a fan of the 28-year-old, and the Liverpool head coach would ideally prefer to keep him on board.

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As a result, the Reds value Diaz highly and RTK have been told that whilst they are not looking to sell him, Liverpool estimate their No.

7’s value to be at around £70million.

That is a fee the Saudi Pro League are understood to be willing to pay, while there are question marks over Barcelona’s ability to reach such a figure.

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RTK can confirm that although Barcelona have made enquiries, and Deco is a known admirer of Diaz, a move to sign Marcus Rashford is more likely as things stand.

Conversely, the Pro League know Diaz would be open to joining given Liverpool’s stance, and it’s understood that an offer is expected to be tabled once the Saudi window opens on July 1st.

Diaz has been on the same deal at Liverpool ever since he signed from Porto in January 2022.

The Colombia international signed a five-and-a-half year contract at the time, with current terms set to expire in June 2027.

Diaz will be 30 when his existing deal comes to an end and his age is understood to be part of Liverpool’s thinking in regards to their current stance.

The winger is currently away with the Colombia national team, although he played no part in their 0-0 draw against Peru on Friday evening.
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