Barcelona’s transfer strategy continues to dominate discussion across Europe after a rollercoaster summer window that has already started to shape the early stages of the season.
Deco’s pursuit of top attacking talent was one of the biggest talking points in Catalonia as the club looked to reinforce their left flank with a marquee signing.
With the Blaugrana still juggling their delicate financial situation, every rumour and negotiation was scrutinised by fans desperate for a statement arrival.
Meanwhile, rivals across the continent moved aggressively, with Bayern Munich and other European heavyweights wasting no time in sealing their top targets.
The pressure on Barcelona to keep pace has only grown.
Supporters are eager to see if the squad, led by Hansi Flick, can compete on all fronts despite missing out on some of the names once at the top of Deco’s shortlist.
Among the headline chases of the summer was a bold attempt to lure one of the Premier League’s brightest stars to Camp Nou.
That story has now taken a fascinating twist after the player himself broke his silence following a standout Champions League performance.
Luis Diaz, who joined Bayern Munich during the recent transfer window after a summer of interest from several clubs, has admitted he held discussions with Barcelona before choosing Germany.
The Colombian had decided to leave Liverpool, and FC Barcelona showed strong interest; he was Deco’s preferred choice to reinforce the left wing, but the move did not happen due to financial issues.
Speaking to the media, and quoted by SPORT, after Bayern Munich’s win over Chelsea in the UEFA Champions League, Luis Diaz did not deny having held talks with Barcelona during the summer.
“Colombians always support me. Today I saw flags of the national team and my shirt, and I’m very happy for all that support.
“I’m very happy to be at this great club. There were talks (with Barca), as is the market, with several teams,” he said.
Insisting that he is happy with his decision to join Bayern Munich, the Colombian international admitted:
“I’m very comfortable with this decision.
“I made an objective decision for my future, and the important thing is that I’m joining a great club.
“So, I’ll just try to give my all.”
Diaz has made a positive start to life in Bavaria and was a key protagonist in their win over Chelsea last night.
While Deco wanted the Colombian international, his €70 million asking price put the transfer beyond the Blaugrana’s reach.
Instead, Barcelona went with Marcus Rashford, signing him on a favourable season-long loan arrangement with a reasonable buy clause for next summer.
The England international is slowly regaining his confidence after a difficult past year or so, with Hansi Flick making it a personal challenge to help the winger return to his best.
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