Liverpool’s Biggest Summer Dump Decision: The Fate Of Salah, Núñez and Díaz

Jürgen Klopp’s era is over. After so many years at the club, he has left a legacy and a philosophy that Liverpool will pursue even after his departure. With Arne Slot’s arrival, many are now asking a pressing question: What should Liverpool do with their front three? 

Cody Gakpo remains exempt from these discussions due to his recent arrival at the club. Arne Slot’s plans are still unclear, but Liverpool is expected to make some moves in the transfer market. So, should they keep their front three intact?

Mohammed Salah

Despite not always being the central figure, Mohamed Salah had another stellar season. The Egyptian King consistently delivers the numbers expected of him, regardless of his age or the turmoil that plagued Liverpool throughout the season. 

Salah scored 18 goals and provided 10 assists in thirty-two games, making him the most reliable goalscorer in Liverpool’s frontline. Many might argue that now is the time to sell Salah, capitalizing on his high market value.

However, this would be a crucial mistake for Liverpool, who should not be overly concerned about resale value in Salah’s case. His impact on the club since his arrival has been monumental.

Selling Salah would be a grave error. At thirty-one, he still has several productive years ahead. In modern football, top players often excel until 33 or 34, with many improving like fine wine – and Salah could be one of them. Aside from interest from Saudi Arabia last year, no substantial offers have been reported in the media, and the market currently lacks better alternatives. Evolution comes from methodical change rather than instant revolutions. Replacing Salah’s goal contributions, especially when Darwin Núñez still finding his footing, would exacerbate the team’s struggles.

The rationale behind selling an aging player is understandable, but quiet leaders like Salah are often missed once they’re gone. Liverpool lacks another right-winger with Salah’s profile or any indication that moving on is the right choice. Negotiating a new salary deal with Salah is another matter. However, at thirty-one, Liverpool should be preparing for a future without him rather than making a hasty decision. 

Every team needs anchors in their attack – leaders who lead by example – and this alone justifies keeping the Egyptian King. If his performance were to decline, that would be a different discussion. Amid Liverpool’s myriad issues, selling Salah should not be a priority.

Darwin Núñez

Darwin is arguably the most-talked-about player at Liverpool, and for good reason. While his stats – eleven goals and eight assists – are respectable, fans know he can achieve much more.

He has been given countless opportunities, and the excitement surrounding his arrival has set high expectations. His ball-striking is phenomenal, but he still needs to refine his shot placement. 

Darwin’s role is crucial; he can decide games with his goals, which means he needs to step up. Most of his deficiencies are not technical – he plays at a high level – but mental. Overcoming psychological barriers is tricky, and Darwin is learning this.

Moving on from Darwin would mean abandoning a long-term project; it’s likely Arne Slot would like to keep him. He recently scored a hat-trick against Mexico, and his diverse range of goals speaks for itself. 

Darwin only needs to keep his head down and work harder, perhaps even consider working with a psychologist to free his mind. His work ethic, commitment, and passion are evident – it’s just a matter of time.  

Another factor to consider is whether he would benefit from midfield that can better support him by stopping counter-attacks. Arne Slot and Liverpool should aim to create a supportive environment for Darwin to unlock his potential.

Luis Díaz

Luis Díaz ’s situation is more complex than that of Salah and Darwin Núñez, making him the likeliest candidate to leave if Liverpool had to part with one of their attacking trio. Díaz has not been terrible by any means, but he has lacked consistency. 

Nobody would blame him for it – between the kidnapping of his father and Liverpool’s difficult season, Díaz is far from being one of the season’s villains. However, he has attracted interest from abroad, notably Barcelona, as their sporting director Deco mentioned. His stocks are not the highest, and the Colombian is far from essential to Liverpool’s system.

On the other hand, selling Díaz necessitates reinvestment in the market. Liverpool’s squad has been thin and new recruits would need time to adapt. Therefore, selling Luis Díaz should only be considered if a substantial offer comes in. 

His performance in front of the goal – eight goals and five assists – is respectable but not his best. If Liverpool plans to sell him, they better make sure they acquire an impressive talent in return, like Jeremy Doku. 

Liverpool cannot afford another risky bet, considering Darwin was one already. Moving on from Luis Díaz would hurt all parties, and the benefits are uncertain. Addressing the midfield and defense should take priority over selling Díaz. However, offers should be considered if they are attractive enough.

Ultimately, it all depends on Arne Slot’s vision – whether he sees Luis Díaz as an essential part of his system or as a replaceable player.