Just two years after joining Liverpool from Benfica in an £85 million transfer, Darwin Nunez is reportedly being linked with a move away. SportsLens takes a look at who could replace the Uruguayan at Anfield.
Liverpool are gearing up for a major overhaul this summer as Jurgen Klopp’s tenure of eight and a half years draws to a close.
The German is saying goodbye to Merseyside to seek respite from the demands of high-level management. Feyenoord’s Arne Slot is set to take his place, with an agreement already in the works for his arrival.
As of now, there’s no official confirmation, but it seems very likely that Slot will be the one to take charge at Liverpool.
While there’s strong confidence regarding the managerial situation, uncertainty looms over the future of certain key personnel for the Reds.
There’s plenty of speculation surrounding the contract situations of Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, both of whom are set to become free agents at Anfield next year. Additionally, Darwin Nunez has emerged as a recent name in the transfer gossip columns.
Nunez’s inconsistent performances have sometimes left his starting position uncertain, and his opportunities could have been even more restricted if Diogo Jota hadn’t been plagued by injuries.
Barcelona has emerged as a surprising potential destination as they plan for the post-Robert Lewandowski era. The 24-year-old’s recent action of removing all Liverpool-related content from his Instagram account has only intensified the speculation.
The question is, with his future uncertain, who could replace Darwin Nunez?
Potential Replacements For Darwin Nunez
Alexander Isak – Newcastle United
While the Swede has faced injury setbacks, it’s undeniable that his track record at St James’ Park has been exceptional.
Given the focus on replacing someone who is inconsistent, it’s clear that Liverpool should prioritise signing someone who has already proven themselves in the Premier League without a doubt.
Isak has scored 20 goals in just 27 games played in the Premier League this season. In addition to his impressive statistics, he also excels in his ability to link up with teammates, and he’s versatile enough to play as a lone striker or alongside another forward when needed.
It’s anticipated that Liverpool would need to spend around £80 million or more to even prompt Newcastle to consider selling the Swedish international.
Alexander Isak ~ 23/24 #NUFC pic.twitter.com/jkeqRZ3Tqk
— • (@M1NTEHH) April 8, 2024
Santiago Gimenez – Feyenoord
At just 23 years old, the Argentina-born Mexican is the youngest among the three mentioned here and shares similar characteristics with Nunez.
An eager presser when out of possession, Gimenez exploits spaces in the channels and spearheads counterattacks—situations where he consistently demonstrates better decision-making compared to Nunez, who has occasionally struggled in this aspect.
With 23 league goals this season and prior experience working with Slot, Gimenez emerges as a more financially feasible option for Liverpool compared to many other strikers in the market. This could potentially free up funds for reinforcing other positions in the squad.
Santiago Gimenez. Unstoppable. 🤯
Three more ⚽ for the collection.#ajafey
— Feyenoord Rotterdam (@Feyenoord) September 27, 2023
Viktor Gyokeres – Sporting CP
Bringing in a prolific striker such as Gyokeres might just be the smartest move Liverpool can make, even if it means spending a substantial amount.
Gyokeres has had an exceptional season with Sporting CP and possesses the same physically imposing threat as Nunez. Additionally, he has greater composure when in possession, both in terms of finishing chances and creating opportunities for his teammates.
Most importantly, he’s a pure striker, boasting an impressive record of 41 goals in 47 games this season. Scoring comes naturally to him.
Moreover, his presence would likely offer clearer roles for Jota and Gakpo, who often adapt to various positions and occasionally operate through the middle when Nunez is shifted to the left.
🇸🇪🤩 Viktor Gyökeres's brace vs Porto!
The forward has 40 goals + 14 assists so far this season! 🫱🥶🫲pic.twitter.com/FZ1aJmWNKj
— CentreGoals. (@centregoals) April 29, 2024
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