Darwin Nunez has been out of favour with Arne Slot this season.
The Uruguayan has only had two starts in all competitions so far and has struggled in front of goal, with Diogo Jota being preferred as a striking option.
Since signing for Liverpool, the Reds number 9 has been incredibly frustrating to watch. At times he has looked unstoppable, but then in almost an instant, he switches and struggles to find any sort of form meaning he hasn’t been able to secure a permanent position in the starting XI.
Read more: Party time as Liverpool loan star supplies day out for teammates
Recently, there have been rumours linking Darwin away from Merseyside amidst his poor performances with one major European club eager for his services. But could this be to Liverpool’s benefit?
Nunez has been likened by Diego Simeone and Atletico Madrid. The La Liga side have not impressed in front of goal so far this season, netting 12 in eight fixtures, leading to the club wanting to explore striking options.
Now Fichajes.net is reporting that Darwin could be the ideal addition to Simeone's squad. The article states that he would ‘fit perfectly into the red-and-white system, bringing his speed and aggressiveness in attack.’
Atletico are also looking at RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko and Sporting Lisbon forward Viktor Gyokeres, but the Spanish side believe Nunez is the ‘easiest’ to gain as he is out of favour.
While this may feel negative for Liverpool supporters, it could open doors for a new striker.
One of these could be Jonathan David. The Lille forward has been linked with Liverpool recently and with the young star scoring 24 goals last season, it is impossible not to attract attention.
David will be in Slot’s mind if Nunez moves on. The Canadian plays more as a false 9 which may suit the Liverpool manager's style of play more, dropping deeper into midfield and creating more opportunities for the wingers; like a certain Roberto Firmino.
The 24-year-old has entered the final year of his contract, and interliver.it are reporting he may not be too far away from a move to Merseyside.
The report states that Inter ‘still seem to be in the front row for Jonathan David, but Liverpool could impose itself by investing 25 million in the operation.’
This would further benefit the Reds in terms of income. A serious profit would be made if we were to sell Nunez for a good price and attain David on a free. It’s a win-win situation.
But for now, Darwin can prove his worth with the striker likely to start against Bologna on Wednesday following the announcement of Jota's absence.