“Not Luis Díaz” – Joan Laporta Confirms Barcelona’s Shock Move for Liverpool’s Powerhouse Star After Contract Breakdown
In a move that could send shockwaves through the footballing world, Barcelona president Joan Laporta has made it clear that he is determined to sign a key Liverpool player in the upcoming summer transfer window.
While initial speculation suggested that Luis Díaz might be the target, reliable sources now confirm that the player in question is someone else – a move that would be a major talking point across global football.
With Laporta’s ambitions to restore Barcelona to its former glory, he has identified this Liverpool powerhouse as the perfect fit for Xavi’s system.
However, the potential exit of this star from Anfield would be a significant blow to Liverpool and its fanbase, many of whom are already pleading for him to stay.
The Identity of the Player Barcelona Wants
While many initially suspected that Luis Díaz might be the player in question, new reports suggest that Laporta has set his sights on Trent Alexander-Arnold.
The Liverpool vice-captain is regarded as one of the best right-backs in the world, but his contract situation at Anfield has put his future in doubt.
Laporta sees Alexander-Arnold as the ideal replacement for Dani Alves, someone who can bring elite attacking quality from the right flank.
Given Barcelona’s need for defensive reinforcements and creative outlets in the backline, the England international fits the profile of a dream signing.
Contract Dispute at Liverpool
One of the key reasons fueling Barcelona’s pursuit of Alexander-Arnold is his ongoing contract uncertainty with Liverpool.
The 25-year-old’s current deal expires in 2025, and negotiations over an extension have reportedly stalled.
Liverpool’s managerial transition from Jurgen Klopp to Arne Slot has created uncertainty for several key players.
With Alexander-Arnold yet to commit his future to the Reds, Barcelona is prepared to take advantage of the situation and make an offer that Liverpool might find difficult to refuse.
Why Barcelona Wants Alexander-Arnold
Barcelona has struggled to find a reliable right-back since Dani Alves left the club. While players like Sergi Roberto, João Cancelo, and Jules Koundé have filled the role temporarily, none have offered the same level of attacking creativity and vision that a player like Alexander-Arnold possesses.
Laporta believes that the Liverpool vice-captain could thrive in Barcelona’s system, given his elite passing ability, vision, and technical skills.
At a club like Barcelona, where possession and creativity are prioritized, Alexander-Arnold could reinvent himself as a deep-lying playmaker, similar to how Pep Guardiola used inverted full-backs at Manchester City.
Tactical Fit
If Xavi remains in charge or if a new coach comes in, Alexander-Arnold would likely be used in a hybrid role—alternating between right-back and midfield.
His ability to deliver pinpoint crosses, dictate play from deep, and contribute defensively makes him a perfect candidate for Barcelona’s style of play.
Moreover, Barcelona is looking to build a team around young stars like Pedri, Gavi, and Lamine Yamal.
Alexander-Arnold’s experience at the highest level, including Premier League and Champions League triumphs, would make him an invaluable addition to the squad.
How Much Would Liverpool Demand?
Liverpool is unlikely to let Alexander-Arnold go cheaply, given his status as a homegrown talent and his importance to the team.
However, with his contract set to expire in 2025, the club could be forced to make a decision if he does not sign an extension by the summer.
Barcelona’s financial situation remains precarious, but Laporta is determined to push through with the transfer.
A deal in the region of €70–€80 million could be enough to convince Liverpool to sell, especially if Alexander-Arnold does not commit to a new contract.
Liverpool’s Response
Liverpool fans have already expressed their concerns about potentially losing one of their most iconic players.
Many supporters have taken to social media, urging the club to “do whatever it takes” to keep Alexander-Arnold at Anfield.
With the Arne Slot era beginning in the summer, Liverpool’s board will have to decide whether to offer Alexander-Arnold a record-breaking contract or risk losing him to Barcelona.
If they choose the latter, finding a suitable replacement will be incredibly difficult.
Could Liverpool Convince Alexander-Arnold to Stay?
Liverpool’s best hope of keeping Alexander-Arnold lies in their ability to convince him that the future at Anfield remains bright.
The club is reportedly prepared to offer him a new long-term contract worth around £300,000 per week, making him one of the highest-paid players in the Premier League.
Additionally, Liverpool’s new sporting director and manager will need to ensure that Alexander-Arnold remains central to their plans.
With Virgil van Dijk also approaching the latter stages of his career, Alexander-Arnold is seen as a future club captain, which could influence his decision to stay.
Barcelona’s Financial Constraints
Despite their eagerness to sign Alexander-Arnold, Barcelona’s ongoing financial struggles could complicate the deal.
The club is still recovering from years of financial mismanagement, and they remain under strict La Liga salary cap regulations.
Laporta will likely look for creative ways to finance the move, including player sales and potential sponsorship deals.
Barcelona is expected to offload several players, including Ferran Torres and Raphinha, to free up funds for marquee signings.
What This Move Would Mean for Both Clubs
For Liverpool
Losing Alexander-Arnold would be a devastating blow to Liverpool’s ambitions.
Not only would they be parting ways with one of the best right-backs in the world, but they would also lose a key leader in the dressing room.
The club would need to find a high-quality replacement quickly, with players like Reece James, Achraf Hakimi, and Jeremie Frimpong being potential targets.
However, none of these players can offer the same level of playmaking ability as Alexander-Arnold.
For Barcelona
If Barcelona succeeds in signing Alexander-Arnold, it would be one of the most significant transfers of the summer.
It would signal their intent to compete with the likes of Real Madrid and Manchester City at the highest level once again.
His arrival would transform their defense, providing an elite right-back who can also function as a deep-lying playmaker.
This move could be Laporta’s defining transfer of the summer and potentially help Barcelona reclaim the La Liga title.
Conclusion
Joan Laporta’s determination to sign a Liverpool star—not Luis Díaz, but Trent Alexander-Arnold—has already become one of the biggest transfer stories of the summer.
While Liverpool fans are desperate to keep their vice-captain, the allure of Barcelona and the uncertainty surrounding his contract could make this transfer a reality.
With negotiations expected to intensify in the coming months, the footballing world awaits what could be one of the most talked-about transfers in recent history.
Will Alexander-Arnold remain loyal to Liverpool, or will he make the move to Camp Nou in a deal that will change the landscape of European football? Only time will tell.
