Four replacements on Liverpool’s list as Arne Slot ready to sanction star’s transfer away

Darwin Nunez’s time at Liverpool appears to be nearing its conclusion, with Arne Slot reportedly losing patience with the Uruguayan striker. Having joined from Benfica in the summer of 2022 for a hefty fee, Nunez has struggled to cement himself as the club’s undisputed first-choice striker, often delivering inconsistent performances.

Liverpool is now open to the possibility of moving Nunez on, and the club has already identified potential replacements. Among those under consideration are Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, Inter Milan’s Marcus Thuram, and Union Saint-Gilloise’s rising star Mohamed Amoura.

Isak, who has been in blistering form for Newcastle, is seen as a prime target. The Swedish international possesses technical ability, pace, and a keen eye for goal, making him a significant upgrade over Nunez. However, prying him away from St. James’ Park may prove difficult given Newcastle’s reluctance to sell and their aspirations of securing European football.

Watkins, on the other hand, has been an ever-present force in Aston Villa’s attack under Unai Emery. His finishing ability and work rate have drawn admiration from several top clubs, and Arsenal had a bid rejected for him in January. If Liverpool decides to pursue him, it could set up an intense bidding war in the summer window.

Marcus Thuram has also emerged as a viable option. The French forward, who joined Inter Milan on a free transfer last summer, has adapted well to Serie A. His versatility in playing both centrally and out wide could make him an appealing option for Slot, especially if Liverpool opts for a more fluid attacking system.

Amoura is the wildcard in the mix. The Algerian forward has been in excellent form for Union Saint-Gilloise, attracting interest from several top European clubs. While he may not yet have the profile of an Isak or Watkins, his potential and sharp goal-scoring instincts make him an exciting prospect.

Liverpool’s decision on Nunez may also hinge on Mohamed Salah’s future. The Egyptian superstar has been the club’s talisman for years, and speculation regarding his potential departure continues to swirl. If Salah leaves, Liverpool might need to prioritize signing a winger rather than a central striker, potentially altering their transfer strategy.

Replacing Nunez is not just about upgrading in front of goal—it’s about securing a forward who fits seamlessly into Liverpool’s tactical framework under Slot. Isak and Watkins offer proven Premier League pedigree, while Thuram and Amoura present more dynamic, adaptable options.

One major hurdle Liverpool faces is finding a buyer for Nunez at a price that reflects their initial investment. While his raw attributes remain enticing, his inconsistency may deter potential suitors from paying a premium fee.

Additionally, the presence of Cody Gakpo, Diogo Jota, and Luis Diaz in the squad complicates matters. If Nunez is sold, Liverpool must ensure they bring in a player who complements these existing attacking options rather than creating redundancy.

There is also the question of whether Liverpool will attempt to reinforce other areas of the squad, particularly in midfield and defense. With the Premier League becoming increasingly competitive, the club cannot afford to miscalculate their summer transfer dealings.

Liverpool’s recruitment team will undoubtedly assess all options carefully before making a final decision. If they can successfully land a marquee signing like Isak or Watkins, it could set them up for a strong campaign under Slot’s leadership.

For now, all eyes remain on Nunez and whether his future truly lies away from Anfield. If a move materializes, Liverpool fans will be eager to see how the club reinvests in their attacking department to ensure they remain a force to be reckoned with in the Premier League and beyond.