The transfer market is once again pitting two European giants against each other: FC Barcelona and Bayern Munich. After the Nico Williams case, who ultimately renewed his contract with Athletic, a new battle is emerging. This time, the wound could be deeper for the Catalan club.
Barça dreamed of making a statement. However, its financial reality is once again leaving it on the edge. Bayern, on the other hand, has made a decisive move, making it clear that it isn't willing to lose another key target.
The cold war of the summer
Although silence prevails publicly, the behind-the-scenes moves are intense. Bayern Munich has submitted an initial offer of €52 million ($56.9 million), which could reach €60 million ($65.3 million) with bonuses.
Its objective is clear. They want to close the deal as soon as possible. The Bavarians, who have fresh income after their participation in the Club World Cup, have been forceful with their proposal.
Barça, meanwhile, remains tied up. Its delicate financial situation prevents it from competing on equal terms. Despite the interest shown for weeks, it can't match or even come close to that figure.
Deco, betrayed without remedy
There is unrest inside the Catalan club. Deco, sporting director, trusted an operation that seemed on track. He had an ace up his sleeve: the player's desire to wear the blaugrana jersey.
However, the contacts between the footballer's entourage and Bayern have taken an unexpected turn. The player's response has surprised everyone.
Although he hasn't said it openly, he isn't closing the door on moving to Germany. That has been a direct blow for Barça, which didn't expect it. In the offices, there is a bitter feeling, as if someone had broken an unwritten pact.
The name that shakes Europe
That's when Luis Díaz appears. The Colombian winger from Liverpool is the main protagonist of this story.
His talent doesn't go unnoticed. Fast, direct, and a goal scorer, he is the ideal profile sought by both Barcelona and München and precisely for that reason, his price isn't low. Liverpool values him at €80 million ($87.1 million), and although there is no clause in the Premier League, that is the starting point.
The player has already said that he is talking with the English club. He hasn't wanted to go into details. His entourage knows that a change of scenery is coming and Bayern wants to close the deal before anyone else.
Barça, against the ropes
Despite everything, Barça doesn't give up. It knows that the player has a fondness for the club and the project. However, the numbers rule and right now, there is no room to dream.
Bayern has taken the lead, has acted with intelligence and speed, and Deco, no matter how hard he tries, can't prevent it. Once again, Barça is left watching. Once again, a star slips away from them and this time, Luis Díaz is closer to München than to Barcelona.