Report: Six forwards Liverpool could target to replace Darwin Nunez | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Striker Dilemma: Darwin Nunez Under Fire and Future Forward Options

Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez has once again found himself under scrutiny this season. The Uruguayan was brought in with high expectations following an £85million (€100m/$108m) transfer from Benfica in 2022. However, his inability to consistently find the net has left questions lingering. As Liverpool aim to reclaim their dominance under Arne Slot, TEAMtalk has outlined a number of exciting forward options who could replace Nunez in the near future.

Nunez, undoubtedly energetic and committed, has not delivered the goals Liverpool crave. A return of 36 goals in 116 appearances equates to a goal every 3.2 games—not the kind of strike rate expected from a marquee signing. This season has been no kinder, with Nunez managing just three goals in 20 appearances across all competitions. Fortunately for Liverpool, Mo Salah and Cody Gakpo’s stunning form has masked the cracks. Yet, it is clear Liverpool may need a more clinical presence upfront.

Let’s take a closer look at six names reportedly on Liverpool’s radar.

Omar Marmoush: Salah’s Potential Partner-in-Crime

Omar Marmoush has been a revelation for Eintracht Frankfurt this season. The Egyptian forward has notched an incredible 30 goal involvements in just 23 games. Operating primarily as a central striker but also capable of playing wide or as a No.10, Marmoush has demonstrated versatility that would benefit Liverpool’s attack.

His familiarity with Mo Salah—both on and off the pitch—adds another intriguing dimension. Marmoush has spoken highly of Liverpool’s talisman: “I’m learning everything from Mohamed Salah on and off the pitch. It’s a great honour to play alongside one of the best players in the world.” His admiration for Salah and willingness to learn could forge a potent partnership if Liverpool decide to make their move.

Photo: IMAGO

Reports suggest Marmoush would jump at the chance to join Liverpool, with Frankfurt reportedly valuing him at around £60million (€72m/$76m). Given his output and potential, this could be a smart investment for the Reds.

Viktor Gyokeres: The Goal Machine in Primeira Liga

Viktor Gyokeres has been nothing short of prolific since his move to Sporting CP from Coventry City. The Swedish striker netted an astonishing 43 goals in his debut season, helping Sporting reclaim the Primeira Liga title. He has already added another 26 goals to his tally this campaign, including a stunning Champions League hat-trick against Manchester City.

Photo: IMAGO

With a reported €100million (£83m/$107m) release clause, Gyokeres won’t come cheap. However, Sporting may be willing to negotiate for around €70million (£57.8m/$73.7m) next summer. His lethal finishing and ability to perform on the big stage make him a tempting option for Liverpool.

Benjamin Sesko: The Rising Star of RB Leipzig

Benjamin Sesko is widely regarded as one of Europe’s brightest young strikers. At just 21 years old, the RB Leipzig forward has already earned glowing praise. Teammate Yussuf Poulsen recently said, “As a striker, he’s the best I’ve played with… He has everything, strength, shooting, technique.”

Photo: IMAGO

Sesko has managed 10 goals in 22 appearances this season and reportedly has a gentleman’s agreement to leave Leipzig next summer. Liverpool’s recent success in signing talents like Dominik Szoboszlai and Ibrahima Konate from the Bundesliga club could give them an edge in negotiations.

Jonathan David: A Budget-Friendly Solution

Jonathan David offers a more economical alternative for Liverpool. Entering the final six months of his contract at Lille, the Canadian striker is poised for a cut-price exit in January to avoid leaving on a free transfer next summer.

Photo: IMAGO

David’s form this season has been exceptional, with 11 goals in Ligue 1 and six in the Champions League, including a winner against Real Madrid. His experience in European competitions and clinical finishing make him an attractive target for Liverpool as they look to add depth to their attacking ranks.

Marcus Thuram: Serie A’s Versatile Forward

Marcus Thuram’s rise at Inter Milan has been nothing short of spectacular. The French international contributed 13 goals and 13 assists during Inter’s title-winning campaign last season. This year, Thuram has already registered 11 goals and six assists in just 15 appearances.

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Thuram’s versatility, capable of playing across the front line, adds significant value. With a release clause of €85million (£70.4m/$89.6m), Liverpool would need to dig deep, but his proven pedigree in Serie A makes him a standout candidate.

Joao Pedro: Premier League Proven

Joao Pedro’s performances for Brighton & Hove Albion have not gone unnoticed. The Brazilian has tallied seven goal contributions in 10 Premier League appearances this season, including strikes against Arsenal, Manchester City, and Manchester United.

Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler praised Pedro’s unique qualities, saying, “In possession, he’s unbelievable… He has this special quality.” With comparisons to Roberto Firmino, Pedro’s ability to drop deep and facilitate play would align well with Liverpool’s attacking philosophy. However, Brighton are reportedly holding out for €70million (£58.2m/$73.5m), which reflects his value to their setup.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View / Anfield Index Analysis

Concerned Liverpool supporters might rightly ask: what went wrong with Darwin Nunez? There is no denying Nunez’s energy and work rate—his physical attributes are immense—but his lack of composure in front of goal remains a glaring issue.

Omar Marmoush stands out as the most realistic and exciting option, particularly given his connection with Salah. His ability to perform in multiple roles could solve Liverpool’s need for flexibility in attack. Meanwhile, Gyokeres and Sesko offer tantalising prospects, but their hefty price tags may give Liverpool pause.

Jonathan David, on the other hand, could be a steal given his contract situation, while Marcus Thuram and Joao Pedro provide proven quality that would bolster Liverpool’s attacking depth. The question remains whether Liverpool are prepared to take the financial plunge or persist with Nunez’s development under Arne Slot.

Liverpool fans will hope the club’s recruitment team gets this next move right—particularly with their lofty ambitions under new management. If Nunez continues to struggle, the clamour for a clinical forward will only grow louder.