The strongest survive, that’s what. Fundamental Darwinism in action. A certain Mr. Nunez is reportedly under close supervision from new manager Arne Slot. He has not scored in his previous 10 games for Liverpool and concluded the campaign with a meagre total of only 11 goals over 36 Premier League appearances. There has been talk of a possible sale, with the suggestion that the Uruguayan is unfit for duty.
Furthermore, rumours indicate that the best successor for Nunez has already been identified in the event that he leaves Anfield in the upcoming weeks. You see, in an ideal scenario, Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa would be a dream come true for Slot and his new transfer managers. Guys, good luck with that.
The England international, who has scored 19 goals and provided 13 assists in 37 Premier League games this season, has been a vital member of Unai Emery’s team during their incredible quest to qualify for the Champions League. Just Alexander Isak, Cole Palmer, and Erling Haaland. When looking at non-penalty goals solely, Haaland was the only one of those three who scored more than the Villa striker.
However, it is not inexpensive, nor does it come without other interested parties. Arsenal has been continuously linked to Watkins for some time now, and rumours circulating on the continent indicate that a successful bid for the 28-year-old would need to exceed £85 million. With a price tag like that, the forward would most likely set a new club record for Liverpool, surpassing the similar sum spent on Nunez only a few summers ago.
And although some people still think the South American could succeed on Merseyside, it’s undeniable that Watkins, should he succeed, would feel like a huge coup for Liverpool. The Villa player is among the most dependable and adaptable goal scorers in the Premier League at this point in his career. Watkins is a versatile player who can do it all. If Liverpool is serious about creating an impression right away in the post-Jurgen Klopp era, they could definitely use a player with his skill set. Watkins can be a brilliant poacher’s finisher or bursts of pace in behind.
Naturally, there will be challenges. The striker has a contract with Villa Park that expires in 2028, therefore there is no way that Villa will consent to a sale. In fact, Watkins stated, “I feel like this is the best place for me to play my football,” when he signed that contract last year. Here, I still have a lot to accomplish.” Hardly the rhetoric of a talent agitating for an exit.
Watkins could be the perfect addition to spark Slot’s tenure, but everyone has a price, and Villa does still have to deal with the spectre of Financial Fair Play. If that’s the case, and if Liverpool is prepared to support their ambitions with a sizable sum of money, perhaps there is some wiggle room in their resolve.