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Stan Collymore believes Newcastle United should offer Darwin Nunez a Liverpool escape route.
A below-par 40 goals in 136 games across all competitions since joining the Reds has done little to justify his £80million price. Two of those strikes, famously, helped Liverpool stun Newcastle at St James’ Park last season.
That aside, the Uruguayan has struggled to make an impact at Anfield and speculation is mounting about a potential exit. Liverpool reportedly rejected two bids from Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr in January but could be more open to a summer deal.
Nunez came on after an hour at the weekend as the Magpies bullied Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final. A tactical switch saw Arne Slot hook Diogo Jota in favour of a more physical presence up front.
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But the 25-year-old - linked with Newcastle when at Benfica - failed to make an impact. Ironically, Alexander Isak, the man the Magpies signed for £17million less in the same window, proved to be the match-winner.
Their Premier League careers have contrasted, with Isak regarded as one of the best strikers in world football. Many suspect the end is nigh for Nunez as Liverpool fans finally begin losing patience.
Speaking to Caught Offside, former Reds striker Collymore has suggested Newcastle should give him a chance - with Isak going in the opposite direction. He cited Eddie Howe as the man who could possibly get the goal-shy forward firing.
“Nunez would be a really good fit at Newcastle and their supporters would love him,” Collymore said. “Newcastle are a really big club, so it would not feel like a massive step down for Nunez, but the important thing is that the pressure would not be as telling.
“And I think Eddie Howe, who I think will become England manager in the future, can make Nunez into the player that many thought he would become at Liverpool. Whatever happens, I think Nunez will leave Liverpool in the summer.
“But it would not surprise me if he went to Newcastle with Isak going in the opposite direction as the two clubs could reach an amicable agreement when considering their respective FFP situations.”
Darwin Nunez admitted to Liverpool troubles after Carabao Cup defeat
Nunez is aiming to “forget” about his Anfield woes during the ongoing international break. He said: “(I’m motivated) to forget a little about what’s happening there (at Liverpool). Besides, there’s nothing more beautiful for a player than wearing your country’s jersey.
“These are moments that one goes through in football. I’m not someone who throws in the towel because they don’t play, but instead I’m going to keep working so I can play. I know I’m not performing as well as I should.”
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