His mother was later rescued but his father remains missing.

Cilenis Marulanda was rescued by police in the city of Barrancas, Colombia's President Gustavo Petro said.

Meanwhile, the country's police director, General William Salamanca, said he is using every agent to find Diaz's father.

The 26-year-old Colombian international's parents were reportedly kidnapped as they drove to their home.

Early reports suggest they were at a petrol station aboard a truck when they were approached by armed men traveling on motorbikes.

Army resources have been deployed along with the police.

Colombia's soccer federation said the kidnapping was regrettable - and urged authorities to rescue the father.