Revealed: Why Barcelona want Luis Diaz more than Nico Williams with president Joan Laporta 'reluctant' to go after Athletic Club star again

According to a report from Cadena SER, Barcelona have placed Liverpool winger Diaz ahead of Athletic Club's Williams on their summer transfer list. Despite recent talks between Williams' agent and Barca sporting director Deco, club president Joan Laporta remains hesitant about reigniting interest in the Spain international after rejection last summer.

Laporta's reluctance stems from last year's failed pursuit of Williams, who reportedly turned down Barca's offer due to concerns over their financial situation, but the player is now open to a move, given his strong bond shared with the star winger Lamine Yamal. However, the president reportedly still prefers Diaz, citing the Colombian's experience and desire to avoid overly close friendships forming within the squad. Barca's hierarchy sees Diaz as a more professional fit in a dressing room that already features several young stars.

Diaz is available for a reported fee of £70 million ($95m), while Williams, despite being younger and more popular among fans, would command a lower transfer fee. Diaz won the Premier League with Liverpool this season, where he scored 13 goals and managed seven assists in 36 games.

On the other hand, the 22-year-old played 29 games for the Athletic Club and managed five goals and five assists each.

Barcelona will continue exploring options for a left-sided winger, with Diaz as the primary target. Although negotiations with both Liverpool and Williams' groups are still under way, the ultimate choice will rely on financial viability and fit with Laporta's team dynamics vision.