Major search underway after Diaz's father kidnapped in Colombia

A major military and police search is underway in Colombia after Liverpool forward Luis Diaz's father was kidnapped.

More than 120 soldiers plus police are searching, while a £40,000 reward has been issued for information leading to Luis Manuel Diaz's rescue after reports armed men had taken him and his wife.

Colombia's president said Diaz's mother "has been rescued" but his father remains missing. 

In a statement, the Colombian army said it had set up roadblocks and deployed two motorised platoons, unmanned aircraft, helicopters and a plan with a radar as the search for Diaz's father stepped up.

Diaz, 26, did not feature against Nottingham Forest at Anfield on Sunday and Diogo Jota paid tribute to his team-mate by holding up his shirt after opening the scoring in the 3-0 win.

Jurgen Klopp told the BBC: "We had to obviously make a late change because of the private situation involving Luis Diaz. 

"It's a worrying situation for all of us and it was a pretty tough night. I have never had that before. It's a new experience I never needed."

Liverpool released a statement confirming the news on Sunday morning.

It read: "Liverpool Football Club can confirm it is aware of an ongoing situation involving the family of Luis Diaz in Colombia.

"It is our fervent hope that the matter is resolved safely and at the earliest possible opportunity. 

"In the meantime, the player's welfare will continue to be our immediate priority." 

Colombia president Gustavo Petro said on X, formerly known as Twitter: "In an operation in Barrancas, Luis Diaz's mother has been rescued, we continue the search for the father."