'I admire Lamine Yamal & Raphinha!' - Liverpool boss Arne Slot aims cheeky dig at Barcelona chief Deco after candid Luis Diaz transfer comments

The Barcelona sporting director had told media that the club were plotting moves for Diaz and Manchester United's Marcus Rashford, but then claimed talking about a deal for either player was disrespectful to their respective clubs. The Catalan giants want to strengthen their already-ruthless attack with another wide player to complement the likes of Lamine Yamal and Raphinha who have had to play close to 50 games each this season. However, the public declaration of interest in Diaz has been laughed off by Slot.

Speaking about potential incomings, Deco said: "Talking about players who have contracts with other clubs is complicated out of respect. We like Luis [Diaz], we like [Marcus] Rashford, and we like other players. When we go to the market, there are names that we know and that could improve the team."

Firing back at Deco, Slot said in a press conference: "Every club has its own way of doing things. You are used to the fact that I don't talk about players from other clubs that we haven't signed.

"I understand he is a big admirer of Lucho Diaz - because I am a big admirer of him as well. He is a great player, having a great season. He [Deco] admires a few players, which we all do. I admire Lamine Yamal and Raphinha a lot as well!"

Liverpool will be hesitant to let Diaz depart without recouping more than the £50 million ($67m) outlay they sent in Porto's direction to bring the Colombian to Anfield just three years ago. The Reds are reportedly seeking to tie Diaz down to a longer-term contract, but with just two years remaining on his current deal, may be forced to cash in now. They will be desperate to avoid losing another star player for no fee with Trent Alexander-Arnold walking out the door as a free agent this summer.

Should Barcelona approach Liverpool with a mammoth offer for Diaz, Slot may not be able to keep hold of his winger. He may not be too concerned, however, with reports suggesting that the Reds are favourites to bring Florian Wirtz to England. The German looks set on a move to the Reds and could operate in midfield or anywhere across the front-line.