Barcelona's board has made a move, and it's a strong one. Despite economic doubts, the club has decided to go for a top-level signing to strengthen its attack. This move could leave no room for Raphinha, whose performance hasn't fully convinced anyone.
The change of plans is already sensed in the locker room. There are clear signs: a rival player's "like" has sparked rumors. Raphinha knows it, and the message seems to have been received loud and clear.
The "wink" that changes everything
Luis Díaz, Colombian winger for Liverpool, has entered the blaugrana orbit. His "like" on a Barça post hasn't gone unnoticed. Nor has the fact that he started following the club's account on social media, all pointing to a clear interest in wearing the blaugrana jersey.
The situation at Liverpool has changed. Liverpool, which wants to invest €150 million ($150 million) in Wirtz according to Fabrizio Romano, needs to cash in and Luis Díaz is one of its biggest assets. In addition, the possible signing of Bradley Barcola (PSG) would push him even further toward the exit.
Barça: Alert to the opportunity
With 17 goals and 8 assists in 50 matches this season, Díaz has been key for the Reds. But the context suggests a change of scenery. He has a contract until 2027, but with no progress in renewal talks and without closing the door to a possible departure.
Barcelona sees an opportunity in him. However, it's not willing to reach the €85 million ($85 million) that Liverpool is asking for. The blaugrana offer would be around €60 million ($60 million), a figure that would mark a turning point in the Catalan club's sports project.
A summer with many pieces in play
Díaz's signing wouldn't only affect Raphinha. It would also cast doubt on the roles of other Barça strikers, such as Ferran Torres or Lamine Yamal, who's looking for minutes to keep growing. In any case, if it happens, it'll be one of the star moves of the summer.
For now, the gap between Barça and Liverpool is large, but in soccer, everything can change in a few days. The ball is in the English club's court, although in Barcelona, they're already preparing to make room for Luis Díaz. Will this be Raphinha's definitive farewell? The Colombian's "like" has only been the beginning.