Report: Summer Exit Looms for £85m Forward Amid Struggles Under Slot | OneFootball

Darwin Nunez at Liverpool: Evaluating the Future and the Alternatives

Liverpool are no strangers to decisive player moves, and the future of Darwin Nunez is rapidly becoming a focal point of speculation. The Uruguayan forward, signed for £85 million (including add-ons) from Benfica in 2022, has failed to justify his hefty price tag and deliver the expected returns at Anfield. Under Arne Slot, the former Benfica man has struggled to carve a definitive role, and Liverpool’s willingness to consider summer alternatives is both telling and intriguing.

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Challenges in Nunez’s Adaptation

Nunez arrived with great fanfare but has struggled to meet expectations. Arne Slot’s appointment as manager has only exacerbated these challenges. Despite early hopes of adapting to Slot’s system, Nunez’s performances in training and competitive matches have not inspired confidence. Diogo Jota’s injury briefly reopened a pathway for Nunez, but Luis Díaz has since emerged as a reliable and dynamic option in Liverpool’s forward line.

Slot’s dissatisfaction with Nunez’s contributions has been evident. TeamTalk reports that while Liverpool may not part ways with the striker in January, a summer departure is a strong possibility. This aligns with the Reds’ proactive approach to identifying future options, a hallmark of their recruitment strategy.

Superstar Alternatives for the Summer

Liverpool’s scouting department is already assessing potential replacements, and two names stand out prominently: Alexander Isak and Marcus Thuram. Newcastle’s Isak is a player Liverpool admire, but his valuation is a significant hurdle. The Swedish striker’s price tag reportedly exceeds €85m, making a deal challenging unless Newcastle show willingness to negotiate.

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Thuram, currently excelling at Inter Milan, presents a more financially feasible option. Inter’s openness to negotiate for a figure close to his release clause of €85m could pave the way for a summer move. Liverpool reportedly view this valuation as fair, especially given Thuram’s recent form. His versatility, combining physicality and technical skill, makes him an attractive prospect for Slot’s attacking philosophy.

Photo IMAGO

Dispelling AC Milan Links

Recent reports of AC Milan’s interest in Nunez appear to be exaggerated. Claims of a six-month loan deal with a subsequent €50m obligation to buy do not align with Milan’s current financial approach. According to TeamTalk, Liverpool have no confirmation of serious interest from the Rossoneri. Milan’s immediate focus lies in stabilising results under Sergio Conceição, rather than executing high-cost transfers.

While a January move to Milan is off the table, Liverpool’s openness to a summer departure signals a broader reshuffle in their attacking department.

Strategic Implications for Liverpool

Slot’s focus on a fluid, high-pressing attack underlines why the club is eyeing players like Thuram and Isak. Both offer qualities Nunez has struggled to consistently display, such as composure in front of goal and adaptability across attacking roles.

If Liverpool do offload Nunez, the reinvestment in a more suitable forward could further enhance the squad’s evolution under Slot, reinforcing their pursuit of Premier League and Champions League success.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Liverpool fans are likely to hold mixed feelings about this unfolding situation. On one hand, Nunez’s underwhelming performances have made it difficult to argue against exploring alternatives. His price tag and pedigree suggested a player who would dominate opposition defences, but the reality has been far less convincing.

However, the prospect of losing such a significant investment is bound to sting. Fans will undoubtedly scrutinise the club’s recruitment process if Nunez is moved on after just two seasons. The silver lining is Liverpool’s proactive approach in targeting proven talents like Marcus Thuram and Alexander Isak.

Thuram’s versatility and Inter Milan’s openness to negotiations make him a standout candidate, and many supporters will be excited by the possibility of seeing him don the famous red shirt. Isak, while immensely talented, feels like a less attainable option due to Newcastle’s financial muscle and reluctance to sell.

That said, the apparent lack of genuine interest from AC Milan suggests Liverpool won’t be rushed into any rash decisions. Fans should take comfort in the fact that Nunez’s potential departure, if it happens, will likely involve a calculated and strategic reinvestment in the squad. Whether Slot can unearth the next superstar forward to lead Liverpool’s line remains to be seen, but there’s no doubt the club’s ambition remains firmly intact.