Two years after joining Liverpool, Uruguayan international Darwin Nunez has increased both his goals and assists. His play as a centre-forward has continued to improve, but his composure and decision-making in front of goal has not improved significantly.
His conversion rate in terms of chances converted is one of the lowest in the Premier League, and there are many games that could have been won more easily if the former Benfica forward had scored.
While he scored dramatic goals, such as against Newcastle, he was clearly frustrated during his spell on the bench towards the end of the season.
Rumours of his departure from the club had surfaced, with the player deleting Liverpool-related photos on social networking sites. According to Football Insider, the Reds are likely to listen to offers for him this summer and he could leave the team before his third year.
The manager left Anfield amid reports that he was Jurgen Klopp’s favourite. New manager Arne Slott is expected to make an assessment after he takes over, but he may spend even more time sitting on the bench as Liverpool search for a new forward.
Barcelona have expressed interest in the Uruguayan international. However, it is difficult to pay the transfer fee demanded by Liverpool and it is not easy to even begin the process of acquiring him without selling the main squad.
Meanwhile, Chelsea, who are said to have attempted to make contact during last summer’s transfer window, will also be closely watched.
With Nicholas Jackson, who has similarly struggled with his decision-making rate, failing to show any fear in front of goal, it cannot be ruled out that they may once again be interested in the Liverpool player, albeit of a similar type.
So will the 24-year-old striker continue to play for Liverpool next season, or will he perform for another club…?