Liverpool forward Luis Diaz could be included in a potential swap deal with Barcelona’s Ronald Araujo, according to reports in Spain.

Relevo.com claim that Araujo has a release clause, which means he can leave the Camp Nou for a fee between €65m (£55.5m) and €75m (£64m) before July 15th.

The Uruguayan international is tipped as a potential “replacement” for Reds captain Virgil van Dijk.

However, Barca may use the interest as an opportunity to bring in a player from Anfield they have long admired.

Diaz’s future at Liverpool is in doubt

The Colombian international has been locked in talks over a contract extension with the Merseyside club for some time but a resolution has not been found. There is a growing belief that he will be sold this summer with the player described as being “unhappy” with how things have transpired.

Barcelona’s sporting director Deco is known to be a big fan of Diaz so if Araujo is a target for Arne Slot’s side, it stands to reason that the La Liga club would want the winger in exchange.

Do the Reds need a replacement for van Dijk?

Recent remarks from Liverpool’s talisman suggest that progress has been made in talks to extend his contract. The Dutchman’s current deal expires at the end of June and there is concern that he will leave on a free transfer like Trent Alexander-Arnold and (potentially) Mo Salah.

If van Dijk does remain, there would be no urgent need to find his successor. Araujo has been linked with a move to England several times in the past few years. In addition to to the Reds, both Chelsea and Manchester United have been mentioned as potential suitors. As things stand, though, it looks like he will stay in Spain.

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