Liverpool may have a decision to make on the future of Darwin Nunez when the January transfer window opens for business. The 25-year-old remains useful for the Reds but has struggled to fulfil his potential since moving to Anfield two years ago.
His inconsistent displays have been paired with a lack of clinical finishing in front of goal, meaning he cannot be relied upon to deliver on a weekly basis. It has led to speculation that Liverpool could look to sign an upgrade in the not-too-distant future.
Jermaine Pennant is among those to have suggested that Nunez is not good enough for the Reds, telling Liverpool.com: “It’s coming to the realisation now that in the third season it’s not going to get any better. People say he is still young and he can kick on.
“For me, this is the finished article. You either accept he will work hard for the team but won’t score goals like Mohamed Salah or Sadio Mane used to, but if Liverpool are to continue to challenge, they need a better No 9.”
Express Sport looks at three potential options for Liverpool if they decide to sign a replacement for Nunez in January…
Omar Marmoush
Omar Marmoush is thought to be attracting interest from some of the world’s biggest clubs due to his scintillating form. Liverpool have already been linked with a move for the 25-year-old, who has scored 17 goals and provided 13 assists this season.
His versatility would allow him to cover multiple positions in attack, though he has mainly been playing as a striker. Meanwhile, a pre-existing chemistry with international team-mate Mohamed Salah would help to ensure a seamless transition on Merseyside.
Joao Pedro
Another player with enough in his locker to replace Nunez, the Brighton forward has been linked with Liverpool for several years. They are now said to be ramping up their interest, with UOL reporting that negotiations could take shape in the coming weeks.
The 23-year-old seems to be improving every season and has proven himself as a force to be reckoned with in the Premier League. He would also fit the profile of player Liverpool tend to go for, but it remains to be seen if Brighton will be prepared to sell.
Alexander Isak
With a move for Viktor Gyokeres likely to be out of reach for Liverpool, particularly in the January window, their next best option could be to sign another Swede in Alexander Isak.
He would be a dream solution for the Reds and is destined to play for a top team at some point in the near future. However, any deal would be hugely expensive and difficult for Liverpool to pull off, with Newcastle almost certain to demand a nine-figure fee.
Arsenal have also been credited with an interest in Isak, which suggests the Reds would need to rush through a deal to stand any chance of snapping him up.
