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In the aftermath of Liverpool’s disappointing 3-3 draw against Newcastle, much has been said about the players who underperformed during the match at St. James’ Park.
Despite a strong start to his tenure on Merseyside, even the elevated level of coaching from the new Liverpool head coach, Arne Slot, has not been able to spark a new dynamic in the game of the Reds’ number nine, Darwin Núñez. Since arriving from Benfica, this record-breaking signing has struggled to maintain both consistency and confidence, as any progress is often followed by setbacks. The energy and enthusiasm of the powerful striker have never been in doubt, and at times, the remnants of Liverpool’s traditional attacking style have allowed Núñez to showcase his potential. However, in his third season at Anfield, a crossroads in his tenure seems to be approaching, with potential ramifications as early as January.
Who is the Liverpool player you like to play with the most?
Salah: “In the past it was Firmino, now it's Nunez.” pic.twitter.com/R1dz70Ngul
— Parted Beard (@PartedBeard) December 7, 2024
Should the Reds Sell Their Uruguayan Forward in the New Year?
Diogo Jota has spent more time in the medical room than on the pitch at the AXA Training Centre, making it unlikely that a significant sale would be approved by either Liverpool’s Sporting Director, Richard Hughes, or the head coach. While there is a pressing need to recruit a new and more prolific attacker, the priority is likely to focus on strengthening either the defensive midfield or left-back positions first.
The market for underperforming strikers (such as Darwin) can create challenges for selling clubs, often resulting in loans with an option to buy. These situations frequently lead to substantial financial losses and numerous failed sale attempts. The only viable option might be to swap the 6-foot-2 striker for another established player (such as Isak with money, although this remains an unlikely scenario.
🚨🆕 #Brighton 🔄 #Liverpool
Liverpool shows genuine interest in Brighton striker Joao Pedro as a potential replacement for the underperforming Darwin Nunez.
▪️Talks have started, and if conditions are favorable, a transfer could happen in January.
▪️Joao Pedro is seen as… pic.twitter.com/20IJ2Nfj3y
— Ekrem KONUR (@Ekremkonur) December 7, 2024
How Can The Form of The Central Stiker Be Overcome?
With the imminent return of both Diogo Jota and Federico Chiesa, the options available to the Liverpool squad will significantly increase. We have seen Harvey Elliott gradually making his way back into the first team, which will enhance the creativity of the group behind the center forward. I strongly believe that Chiesa, who was signed for just £10 million in the summer, can be the wildcard that boosts both quality and competition up front.
Luis Díaz is a player that can be utilized in certain matches; however, his skill set is not ideally suited for the striking position. Brighton’s João Pedro and Sporting Lisbon’s goal machine, Viktor Gyökeres, remain my top two choices to join the club as the last winter transfer window approaches for Darwin Núñez, who is simply not the right fit for Arne Slot.
In the coming weeks and months, the performance of the 25-year-old will significantly influence the long-term future of a player who has recorded just three goals and two assists in eighteen appearances this season. It may be his international experience that helps him maintain a strong presence in the European market, as he has scored thirteen goals in 33 caps for Uruguay, playing a key role for his national team. Liverpool’s initial investment could exceed £80 million; however, any selling fee above £50 million should be regarded as a substantial advantage for whoever ultimately fills Darwin’s position in the squad.
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