Liverpool target Darwin Nunez could make a similar impact to Luis Diaz at Anfield, believes talkSPORT reporter Alex Crook....CONTINUE READING
The Reds are thought to be closing in on a deal to sign the Benfica striker this summer, and Crook thinks supporters will be confident that he can deliver given the club’s recent success in the transfer market.
GiveMeSport Transfer Verdict
What is the latest news involving Nunez?
According to Portuguese journalist Pedro Sepulveda, Nunez is heading to Liverpool after agreeing a five-year contract with the Premier League outfit.
They are expected to pay £85.5m for the Uruguay international, with Sky Sports reporting that Benfica value him at that figure.
It comes as no shock after the season Nunez had. In 41 outings during the 2021/22 campaign, he scored 34 goals, including two against Jurgen Klopp’s side in the Champions League.
Manchester United were also said to have been interested in the 22-year-old, but they now look to be completely out of the running for his signature.
BRUTAL! Egal and Terry CLASH over Darwin Nunez on The Football Terrace.
What has Crook said about Nunez to Liverpool?
While Crook does not think there are any guarantees, he believes Liverpool fans will be backing Nunez to make an immediate impact like Diaz did when he arrived back in January.
Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, the talkSPORT reporter said: “I don’t think it’s guaranteed that he hits the ground running. Having said that, you look at what Luis Diaz has done since coming from Portugal, he hasn’t taken any time at all to adapt.
“And Liverpool’s scouting has been absolutely on point in the last few years, so that would give their supporters confidence, I think, that he can settle straightaway.”
How good has Diaz been for Liverpool?
He has been exceptional, coming up with four goals and three assists in 13 Premier League appearances for the Merseyside club.
Over the last year in general, Diaz has excelled. In that time frame, he has ranked in the 87th percentile for progressive carries, the 94th for dribbles completed and the 96th for touches in the penalty area among attacking midfielders and wingers (via FBref). It shows just how dangerous he is on the flank and in the box.
Liverpool started their Premier League season with a 3-0 win over who?
Ultimately, it is not hard to see why Liverpool decided to fork out an initial £37.5m on him during the winter transfer window.
If Nunez can make the sort of impact the Colombian has made, Klopp will be very happy with the piece of business he has done.
