Neymar could hold the key to Luis Diaz’s Liverpool future as Barcelona set their transfer plans

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The future of football superstar Neymar is uncertain heading into the 2025/26 campaign.

Since departing PSG in the summer of 2023, Neymar has struggled with injuries, which resulted in the winger departing Al-Hilal and joining Santos on a short-term deal this year.

Neymar looks rejuvenated in Brazil and has been playing football with a smile on his face again as the 33-year-old has an eye on the 2026 World Cup.

In order to be selected for the Brazil national team next year, the former Barcelona talent will need to be competing at the highest level.

A return to Europe may be on the cards for Neymar this summer and that is where the superstar may help Liverpool.

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Barcelona exploring Neymar transfer ahead of 2025/26 season

It looked like Neymar’s move to Brazil this year would cause Liverpool problems as it could have opened the door for Al-Hilal to move for Mohamed Salah.

A move for Salah to Al-Hilal may still be on the cards, however, Neymar may be about to help Liverpool unexpectedly.

According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, a sensational return to Barcelona may be on the cards for Neymar this summer.

The journalist has stated that the free transfer is currently being explored by the Catalan club and that the Brazilian has prioritised a return to Barcelona. Nothing has been decided but discussions are taking place between all parties.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta and Neymar’s representative Pini Zahavi have a close relationship, and the agent also looks after the Spanish club’s head coach Hansi Flick.

The arrival of the superstar would very likely end Barcelona’s pursuit of Luis Diaz, who has been a top target for the La Liga giants heading into the summer.

• READ MORE: Luis Diaz explains where his head is at after claims Barcelona are preparing to sign him from Liverpool

Neymar looks set to help Liverpool keep Luis Diaz

There has been a bit of talk around the future of Diaz as the Colombian is out of contract at Anfield in 2027.

It has been suggested that Liverpool may not offer Diaz a new one, which has led to links away ahead of next season.

Barcelona has shown strong interest in Diaz and were believed to be willing to spend £59m on the Colombian international – £10m more than the £49m the Reds acquired him from Porto for.

The arrival of Neymar would certainly put an end to Barca’s interest in the winger as the La Liga leaders are already stacked in forward areas.

Diaz has been in top form for Liverpool in recent weeks and it should be in the Merseyside club’s interest to get another year out of the winger before selling in 2026.

Arne Slot is a big fan of the 28-year-old given how much he has used the Colombina this season and if he stays, the Dutch coach may have Neymar to thank for that.