Reports suggest a divergence in opinion within Liverpool’s management regarding the acquisition of Darwin Nunez, with a preference for a Chelsea forward instead.
Darwin Nunez’s transfer to Liverpool from Benfica in 2022, valued at £85 million, has yielded inconsistent performances at Anfield.
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Despite scoring 11 goals in the Premier League this season, Nunez has faced criticism for his inefficiency in front of goal. His profligacy was notably evident during Liverpool’s 2-0 loss to Everton, a significant setback for their championship aspirations.
In that match, Nunez missed a crucial chance to level the score following Jarrad Branthwaite’s goal, shooting directly at goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. Everton later cemented their victory with a header from Dominic Calvert-Lewin in the second half.
The Times has revealed that Jurgen Klopp was instrumental in finalizing Nunez’s signing, while the recruitment team had shown a preference for Christopher Nkunku, who is currently with Chelsea.
Nkunku had a successful stint with RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga before his £53 million move to Chelsea.
However, his first season has been marred by injuries, with the 26-year-old French striker sidelined for extended periods due to shoulder, hip, and hamstring problems.
As Klopp prepares to leave Liverpool at the end of the season, ex-defender Jamie Carragher contemplates the challenging decisions the new manager will face regarding the unpredictable Nunez.
‘I think there is a question to ask,’ Carragher said on Sky Sports after Liverpool’s defeat to Everton last Wednesday.
‘You want him to do well because he gives everything, he causes trouble, he gets the odd goal.
‘But after two years, when Liverpool are going for the title or in big games, you need your man to score at Old Trafford or at Goodison Park. This is the business end. He’s ground to a halt.
‘After two years there’s going to be no improvement in him. This is what he is. He can cause trouble but he’s erratic with his finishing – it’s not enough to win you trophies so there’s a big decision to be made on him.’
