Benfica forward could be ideal replacement for Divock Origi
By Liam Thomas
Liverpool fans were provided with a glimpse of Darwin Núñez during last week’s Uefa Champions League Quarter Final first leg, where the Uruguayan scored Benfica’s only goal in a 3-1 defeat to the Reds.
Now with Divock Origi nearing an Anfield exit and Roberto Firmino’s contract expiring next summer, Jurgen Klopp will certainly be on the lookout for a talented striker to join the ranks of his star-studded squad.
Núñez provides Liverpool with an interesting option, however, with three years left on his current Benfica contract and a staggering £125m release clause, his price could prove a stumbling block when you take into account Liverpool’s current transfer model.
Nevertheless, with 36 goals to his name so far this campaign, Klopp, and Liverpool will get another chance to see the forward perform in the second leg of their Champions League clash tomorrow evening, ultimately proving if his price tag is warranted.
Núñez certainly possesses the type of talent that would fit perfectly into Liverpool’s heavy metal style of play; relentless for every second he spends on the pitch and keen to bolt forward at any given opportunity.
Any move for the 22-year-old will depend on departures from the club, and the money gained from this; however, with Divock Origi set to leave on a free this summer and potentially the same scenario happening with Roberto Firmino next year, the Reds may have to depend on funds from elsewhere.
The Benfica starlet is also under the watch of some of Europe’s biggest clubs with Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain all said to be in contention for his signature.