Luis Diaz salary a key reason behind Liverpool's reluctance to sell as Bayern Munich consider clause in new offer to persuade Reds to let him go

The German champions have made Diaz their top priority and are actively negotiating with the Reds, but have already had an offer rejected. Talks have accelerated after Diaz’s agent met Liverpool officials last week, and Bayern are now discussing ways to structure the deal, including a potential sell-on clause, according to Sport Bild. While Liverpool are open to talks, they have placed a high value on Diaz due to his modest wages and the financial knock-on of replacing him.

Diaz’s low salary has become a sticking point for Liverpool, who fear they will need to pay far more to his replacement. Sporting director Michael Edwards is focused on keeping wage structure and squad value balanced, and Diaz’s bargain salary - reportedly just €2.7 million net - gives the club immense value. Losing him would mean recruiting someone on much higher terms, affecting the overall balance sheet. That’s why the Reds are pushing for a premium transfer fee which is higher than the €75m (£65m/$88m) Bayern are prepared to offer, meaning a sell-on clause could persuade them to give in to the player's wishes.

According to Sport BILD, Bayern have had the player's go ahead since the Club World Cup. Diaz reportedly confirmed his intent in person, while Bayern missed out on Florian Wirtz, they are more confident now, and internal talks point to urgency and optimism. The club's hierarchy sees Diaz as a make-or-break move for salvaging their summer window and are very optimistic that the deal can be completed in a week's time.

Should Diaz leave, Liverpool could turn to Real Madrid’s Rodrygo as a potential replacement. The Brazilian’s situation is uncertain under Xabi Alonso, and his lack of game time at the Club World Cup has sparked speculation.