Liverpool Forward ‘Keen’ to Leave the Club This Summer – Report | OneFootball

Darwin Nunez Unhappy at Liverpool: A Summer Exit on the Cards

Liverpool forward Darwin Nunez is reportedly keen to leave Anfield as soon as the season ends, with recent reports highlighting his dissatisfaction under current manager Arne Slot. After being denied a move to the Saudi Pro League in January and struggling for consistent game time, the Uruguayan striker appears ready to call time on his Liverpool career.

Nunez’s Discontent Grows Amid Limited Opportunities

Since his arrival at Liverpool in the summer of 2022 from Benfica for a club-record £85 million, Nunez has struggled to live up to expectations. The dynamic forward was brought in to bolster Liverpool’s attack, but his inability to convert chances consistently has drawn criticism from fans and pundits alike. With just 40 goals in 136 appearances, his return has been far from impressive.

Photo: IMAGO

Under Arne Slot this season, Nunez has found himself increasingly on the periphery, making just eight Premier League starts. His lack of involvement has undoubtedly contributed to his frustration, leaving Nunez “unhappy” and wishes to leave as soon as the current campaign concludes. Sources suggest that Nunez could push for an immediate exit once the 2024-25 season ends.

The breakdown of his potential move to the Saudi Pro League in January only added to the tension. Al-Hilal had shown significant interest in signing Nunez, but despite initially being open to a deal, Liverpool ultimately chose to retain the striker. At the time, Liverpool were competing on multiple fronts, aiming for a historic quadruple, and Slot was hesitant to lose squad depth.

Liverpool’s Missed Opportunity: Quadruple Dreams Dashed

Liverpool’s decision to hold onto Nunez in January was primarily driven by their pursuit of the Premier League, FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and Champions League. However, the reality has been harsh. Slot’s side crashed out of the FA Cup, lost the Carabao Cup final to Newcastle United, and were eliminated from the Champions League by Paris Saint-Germain.

With the quadruple dream in tatters, the decision not to cash in on Nunez is being questioned. There is a growing sense that selling the striker in January might have been a more prudent decision, both financially and strategically. Now, with Nunez actively seeking a move away, Liverpool may have missed the chance to secure a more lucrative fee.

Isak as Nunez’s Successor: An Ideal Fit?

According to TEAMtalk, Liverpool have already lined up a potential replacement in Alexander Isak. The Swedish international has been in impressive form for Newcastle United and represents the kind of versatile and clinical forward that Liverpool’s attack could benefit from.

Photo IMAGO

However, Newcastle have made it clear that they are unwilling to part ways with Isak, and discussions over a new contract are already in the works. Former Liverpool striker Stan Collymore has suggested that a swap deal involving Nunez and Isak could be beneficial for both clubs. He commented, “Isak would be a massive upgrade on Nunez. His all-round play is what Liverpool need in a striker… Nunez, on the other hand, could thrive at Newcastle where the pressure is less intense.”

Whether or not this potential swap materialises remains to be seen, but it’s clear that Liverpool need to address their striking options if Nunez departs. The Uruguayan’s lack of composure in front of goal has proven costly, and with Arne Slot likely to reshape his squad in the summer, Nunez’s exit feels almost inevitable.

A Change of Scenery: Best for Both Parties?

While some fans may feel disappointed that Nunez never fully realised his potential at Anfield, a move away could be in the best interest of both the player and the club. As Collymore suggested, “Nunez is not someone that can handle playing for a club like Liverpool that brings so much scrutiny and pressure.” Perhaps a change of environment could help the forward rediscover the form that made him such a highly sought-after talent just a few years ago.

With Liverpool’s striking options likely to be overhauled this summer, Nunez’s departure would free up funds and allow Slot to target players more suited to his tactical vision. Whether that includes Isak or another forward remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Liverpool need a more reliable and consistent presence up front if they are to challenge for silverware next season.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As a Liverpool fan, it’s genuinely frustrating to see how the Darwin Nunez saga has unfolded. Expectations were sky-high when he signed from Benfica for that record fee, but he’s never looked comfortable at Anfield. His raw pace and work rate are undeniable, but the lack of composure and clinical finishing has been a real letdown.

The decision not to sell him to Al-Hilal in January is particularly baffling now. At that point, the club was chasing glory on all fronts, but the reality is that Nunez wasn’t contributing enough to justify keeping him. Slot’s stubbornness to retain him only to then bench him in crucial matches feels like poor squad management.

And now we’re linked with Alexander Isak, who genuinely looks like a quality player – mobile, intelligent, and capable of finishing with finesse. It’s hard not to think that letting Nunez go in exchange for Isak could be a blessing in disguise. A swap deal with Newcastle could genuinely benefit both parties. Eddie Howe could get the best out of Nunez, and Slot would get a striker better suited to his system.

Ultimately, it’s disappointing that Nunez never truly settled at Liverpool, but holding onto him now seems like a mistake. Liverpool can’t afford to be sentimental – we need ruthless efficiency up front, and Nunez just hasn’t delivered. If there’s an opportunity to get Isak in, it’s one that Slot should take without hesitation.