Darwin Nunez to Chelsea could be one of the most surprising transfers of the summer.
The 26-year-old found life at Liverpool difficult before joining Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal last year. Yet it is thought that Chelsea are interested in signing Nunez once the transfer window opens.
The Blues already possess Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, Emanuel Emegha, Nicolas Jackson and Marc Guiu, so there will have to be some exits to facilitate Nunez’s potential arrival.
Nicolas Jackson or Liam Delap, which one are you keeping? Tell us who and why!
Chelsea view Darwin Nunez as different profile to Joao Pedro
According to journalist Simon Phillips, Chelsea are looking for competition for Pedro, hence their interest in Nunez.
Phillips has claimed on Si Phillips Talks Chelsea that the Club World Cup holders view Nunez as a “different profile” to Pedro, which is one reason why they are looking at the Uruguayan specifically and have contacted his agent.
Chelsea are also said to be interested in Dusan Vlahovic, who is available on a free transfer after failing to agree a new contract with Juventus.
However, it is unlikely that a top Serie A forward like the Serbian would be willing to settle for a role on the bench.
Nunez is more likely to accept such a role, but Chelsea have Delap and Emegha who can deputise for Pedro. Based on his previous experience in the Premier League, Nunez will probably not be a vast upgrade on Delap or Emegha, so it may be better for the Blues to just put their trust in those two.
If you had to pick one, Nicolas Jackson or Darwin Nunez?
Don't say none 🤣
Nunez is being linked with a move to Chelsea!
Darwin Nunez’s record at Liverpool
While at Liverpool, Nunez managed to score just 25 goals in 95 Premier League appearances. Across all competitions, he netted 40 times in 143 outings.
The Uruguay international was not prolific and often underperformed in xG. Signing him would be a gamble, one Chelsea do not need to take when they have other strikers.
If they bring in another centre-forward for cover, he needs to be better than what they have already.
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