Liverpool in the chase for Darwin Nunez: The saga thus far

With all indications pointing towards an exit for Sadio Mane, Liverpool have turned their attention to Benfica striker Darwin Nunez, valued at a whopping €105 million by the Portuguese side.

With a release clause of €150 million in his Benfica contract, which runs till 2025, the Uruguayan striker will certainly not come cheap, and is likely to result in Liverpool breaking it’s transfer record.

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Understandably, given the buzz around the Uruguayan’s ability in front of goal, Liverpool aren’t the only contenders, with Manchester United and Arsenal also being named in the mix of clubs vying for Nunez’s signature.

That being said, reports suggest that Liverpool have already agreed personal terms for a five year deal with the 22-year-old, with official negotiations between the Merseyside club and Benfica at an ‘advanced stage’ according to ESPN sources. Reports also suggest that Nunez has personally declared his preference, choosing Liverpool over the other clubs vying for his signature.

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According to the ever-reliable Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool are in the process of negotiating a €100 million, five year deal for Nunez, with the break-up being €80 million plus and €20 million in add-ons. 

A traditional number 9 – the jersey Nunez has worn for Benfica – Liverpool’s interest in Nunez signals a willingness to change tactics.

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While Jurgen Klopp has typically preferred a false 9 role for his centre forward – usually played by Roberto Firmino, and of late, by Mane – since taking charge at Liverpool, acquiring Nunez will allow the Reds to be far more direct in their play

Not only does Nunez boast all the attributes desirable in a modern centre forward, but the young Uruguayan also boasts a prolific conversion rate, having scored 34 goals in 41 games for Benfica across all competitions, and finishing Primeira Liga last season as the top scorer with 26 league goals.