Sky Sports Presenter Reveals Why He Isn't Convinced By Darwin Nunez

Sky Sports presenter Joe Thomlinson has revealed that he’s not convinced by Liverpool’s imminent signing Darwin Nunez.

Despite interest from several top European clubs, including Liverpool’s North West rivals Manchester United, the Reds have managed to secure the services of Nunez, who is set to undergo his medical in Madrid today.

The Uruguayan agreed personal terms with the Merseysiders last week, which meant only the fee had to be negotiated in order for the deal to be completed. In the last few days, Liverpool and Benfica were able to reach an agreement worth £65 million, with a series of potential add-ons which could see the deal rise to £85 million. 

When the signing is made official, he will become Liverpool’s most expensive addition despite being just 22 years old and having only just experienced one breakout season. Although this 2021/22 campaign was electric, such a small sample size could make this deal something of a risk.

Speaking on the Football Daily Youtube channel, Thomlinson admitted his reservations about the transfer.

“They were obviously very interested in (Aurlien) Tchouameni, weren’t they,” he said. “It almost feels like the Tchouameni money that they weren’t able to spend on him has gone on Darwin Nunez now, which is bizarre, because then you’re not signing the midfielder you were originally looking to pick up and you’re signing a forward.”

“I’m also really mixed on this, I said last week I was unconvinced about Liverpool needing a physical No 9.”

Despite Nunez’ physical profile contrasting to their current set of forwards, standing at 6’2, he does possess similar tactical versatility to the likes of Diogo Jota and Luis Diaz, often operating from the left for Benfica as well as down the middle. 

The starlet burst onto the scene in the 2021/22 campaign, scoring 34 goals in 41 appearances in all competitions for Benfica, including six in the Champions League.