Benched and frustrated: Is it time for Darwin Nunez to walk away from Liverpool? | OneFootball

Despite being a regular under Jürgen Klopp, Darwin Núñez has struggled for game time under new manager Arne Slot at Liverpool. This season, he has managed just seven goals in 40 appearances, with 23 of those coming off the bench. With the Uruguayan seemingly out of favor, a summer exit appears increasingly likely. According to TEAMtalk, Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest have expressed interest in signing him.

Núñez was signed in 2022 after an impressive spell at Benfica, where he scored 48 goals in 85 matches, enough to convince Liverpool to pay an initial £64 million for his services. However, his time at Anfield has been far from smooth.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe currently has two main striking options. Callum Wilson’s contract expires at the end of the season, and reports suggest the club may allow him to leave on a free transfer. Meanwhile, Alexander Isak has attracted interest from several top European clubs, including Liverpool, following an outstanding campaign with the Magpies.

Even if Newcastle manages to retain Isak, their confirmed qualification for European competition, secured through their EFL Cup triumph, means they will need greater depth in attack. Núñez could be a valuable addition to strengthen their forward line.

Nottingham Forest’s interest in Núñez is also tied to their European ambitions. They are the only team in the current top five that did not compete in Europe this season. However, with Forest currently sitting third in the table, they are on course to secure continental football next year.

Chris Wood has been a reliable presence up front, but at 33, he cannot carry the workload alone. Signing Núñez would provide Forest with much-needed attacking reinforcements.

Interestingly, both Newcastle and Forest suffered stoppage-time heartbreak at the hands of Núñez last season, with the Uruguayan scoring late winners at their respective stadiums. That history could add extra intrigue to any potential move.

The race for Núñez’s signature remains open. Any club hoping to sign him will not only need to agree on personal terms but also meet Liverpool’s valuation, as the Anfield club is expected to demand a significant fee.

Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr reportedly tried to sign Núñez in January, further highlighting his market appeal. At 25, the Uruguayan, once considered one of the most promising strikers in world football, should have no shortage of suitors.

Slot has guided Liverpool through a relatively stable season and is on course for the Premier League title. However, with several key players nearing the end of their contracts, the club could face a significant squad overhaul this summer.

For Núñez, this potential upheaval, coupled with the ongoing pressure to deliver at Anfield, may prompt him to seek a fresh start elsewhere. A move to a club where he can play with less scrutiny and secure regular minutes could be crucial, especially with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon.