Liverpool and Klopp Disagreed Over Darwin Nunez Signing

After his high-profile transfer from Benfica to Liverpool, Darwin Núñez came under heavy criticism for squandering numerous scoring chances. According to The Times journalist Paul Joyce, Liverpool’s recruitment staff initially preferred a different option to the Uruguayan striker.

Despite that, then-manager Jürgen Klopp—who guided the club through 489 matches and now serves as Red Bull’s Global Sports Director—insisted on securing Núñez’s signing for £85 million.

Although he managed a respectable tally of 40 goals in 143 games for the Reds, many felt he should have scored more given the volume of opportunities created for him. In comparison with Manchester City’s Erling Haaland and former teammate Mohamed Salah—both regarded among the world’s elite—Núñez’s finishing appeared underwhelming.

Now departed from Anfield, the 26-year-old, once tipped to be a lethal centre-forward, ultimately failed to fulfil his potential in England. His lack of composure in clear-cut situations frequently tested supporters’ patience. While Liverpool fans consistently backed him during his struggles, few are particularly upset to see him leave.

Interestingly, Joyce revealed that before signing Núñez, Liverpool also considered Christopher Nkunku, then playing for RB Leipzig. The French forward was admired by the club’s hierarchy, but Klopp pushed for Núñez to be the chosen signing.