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Luis Diaz of Liverpool(Image: Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

Social media has never been a particularly accurate barometer of reality.

That, though, will not stop forensic examination of even the most heartfelt of messages.

Such was the case with Luis Diaz's girlfriend Gera Ponce, whose recent post praising the depth of the Liverpool support for the Colombia winger was taken by some as a farewell.

Given the speculation surrounding interest from several suitors - including the Saudi Pro League and La Liga champions Barcelona - and the intrigue over the player's contract situation at Anfield, such suspicions were not without credence.

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But the news on Thursday that Barcelona had seen an approach rejected for Diaz very much backed up the report in the ECHO the previous day that Liverpool were not actively looking to sell the player.

As ever in the transfer window, it's important to recognise the language used.

And while the Reds aren't contemplating moving on Diaz, it doesn't mean they couldn't be tempted into a sale should the right offer be forthcoming.

That, though, is likely to involve an eye-watering fee.

It's understood Liverpool value Diaz much higher than the suggested numbers doing the rounds, particularly given Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes was priced at €100million (£84 million) by the Saudi Pro League despite being two years older than the 28-year-old.

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The tricky financial situation Barcelona have been navigating in recent seasons suggests it would be difficult for the Catalans to put together such a package.

From Liverpool's perspective, Diaz is regarded as an important player under Arne Slot having played a key role in helping the Reds to a record-equalling 20th championship, scoring 17 goals and providing eight assists in 50 appearances in all competitions and demonstrating his versatility with regular appearances down the centre of the attack as well as on the left wing.

But the fact is Diaz now has just two years remaining on the initial contract he agreed when arriving from Porto in January 2022.

There has as yet been no indication Liverpool are progressing with talks over a new agreement, and Diaz's market value is only going to decline after this summer as he edges nearer the end of his deal.

If Liverpool want top dollar for the player, now would be the time to cash in.

But replacing a player of Diaz's calibre would not be cheap although in Anthony Gordon there is an obvious replacement who the Reds came close to signing last summer until Newcastle United pulled the plug on the deal.

However, for as long as Slot continues to regard the Colombia international as a key figure in his plans, there will be little appetite for Liverpool to push for his sale.

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And under Fenway Sports Group, the Reds have demonstrated with the likes of Emre Can, Gini Wijnaldum, Roberto Firmino and, most recently, Trent Alexander-Arnold that they are comfortable retaining faith in a player whose contract is close to expiring if they are deemed still of use to the first team.

Of course, should Diaz agitate for a move over the coming months, the landscape changes and some tough negotiations will be required.

Otherwise, it appears increasingly likely the Colombian is worth more for Liverpool by staying put for next season.


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