Liverpool ace Diaz rebuffed Saudi Arabia with two key gestures in pre-season

Luis Diaz has indicated that his loyalties lie with Liverpool amid interest from Saudi Arabia. The Reds have made it clear that their star man is not for sale after Al-Hilal made an approach for the winger.

According to the Athletic, the Saudi Pro League side are willing to pay around £43.3million for Diaz, who only made the switch to Anfield 18 months ago. However, Liverpool aren’t interested in selling one of their most important players and if the Colombian’s recent actions are anything to go off then neither is he.

Diaz was recently given the No 7 shirt following the departure of James Milner to Brighton. Club legends Kenny Daglish, Kevin Keegan and Steve McManaman have all donned the famous No 7 jersey in the past – and there is a great deal of expectation that comes with wearing it.

Diaz specifically requested the number, indicating that he intends to build a legacy with the Reds, and with it, the recognition of being one of the Premier League’s top No 7s. Diaz is said to be enjoying his time with the Merseyside club and that was clear to see during a recent pre-season friendly against Bundesliga 2 outfit SpVgg Greuther Fürth on Monday.

Diaz opened up the scoring with an excellent individual goal and his jubilant celebration wasn’t befitting of a player that was considering a move away any time soon. Neither was his glowing review of his time at Liverpool so far.

“I’m really, really happy to be sharing a training ground and the pitch with them (the Liverpool squad). I had admired them from afar but when you are up close and training with them, you can tell a lot more than if you’re watching on TV,” he said.

“It’s just not the same watching on TV or from the stands. You appreciate it [more] when you’re alongside them. And it’s not just up front but all over the park is that quality amongst every player. They’ve all got huge skill, ability in football terms, and also tactically as well – they’re very aware and have great appreciation of the game tactically also.”

He added: “This is how I wanted everything to work out. I wanted to settle as quickly as possible, as I was saying before, and to get to know the style of play and feel comfortable. In training and on the field, I think I’ve managed to develop a good understanding with my teammates – and I think that’s been down to both them and the coaching staff, who have helped me in this settling-in period. They have been a great help to me. I’m here to try to help, I’m here to try to support the team and the lads. As I say, I want to just keep doing my best.”