Liverpool star Luis Diaz convinced 22-year-old signing will force him out of Anfield; determined to seal transfer to European giants: Reports

Liverpool forward Luis Diaz, who has recently been linked with Barcelona, is allegedly convinced that Florian Wirtz's potential arrival at his club will lead to his departure.

Diaz, 28, has established himself as one of the best left-sided wingers in the world over the last few years. He helped his side lift their 20th league title last season, recording 17 goals and eight assists in 50 appearances across competitions in the process.

However, Diaz's future at Liverpool is regarded up in the air with his deal set to expire in June 2027. Moreover, Arne Slot's side are currently locked in negotiations with Bayer Leverkusen for Wirtz, who is reportedly valued at around £127 million.

Now, according to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Diaz is of the opinion that Wirtz's signing will force him out of the Merseyside club. He is said to be only thinking about playing for Barcelona next season as he does not feel appreciated enough by the Reds.

Earlier this month, Diaz opened up on his future at the Reds (h/t Metro):

"I'm very happy there at Liverpool, I've always said so. They've welcomed me very well. We're in contact with them right now because we're obviously talking to clubs. It's normal. The transfer market is opening, and we're trying to arrange what's best for us."

Asked to offer his thoughts on a potential contract extension, he replied:

"As I told you, I'm waiting for it to happen. If Liverpool give us a good renewal or I get the two years I need with them, I'll be happy and content. It all depends on them, I'm just here to decide and look at what's best for us."

Pundit opines on star's decision to leave Liverpool

Earlier this month, Brentford roped in Caoimhin Kelleher from the Reds in a transfer worth up to £18 million to replace goalkeeper Mark Flekken.

Speaking to SundayWorld, former Liverpool striker John Aldridge insisted that Kelleher will be under a lot of pressure at Brentford. He remarked:

"I'm sad to see Kelleher leave because he has been a fantastic servant and stepped in at crucial moments to help the club win some big trophies. He is a top class keeper, but the pressure on him now will be different next season as he will be playing regular football and his mistakes will be highlighted, but that's what he needs now."

Kelleher, 26, registered 24 clean sheets in 67 total matches for the Reds.