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Plenty of change is expected within the Liverpool squad this summer as Arne Slot prepares to put his stamp on proceedings at Anfield.

Slot has done magnificently with the tools given to him by Jurgen Klopp this season.

But after a full year of assessment, it’s time for the Dutchman to make some culls.

Some of those are likely to come in the attacking department, where Liverpool are expected to target a new number nine.

With a big money signing set to arrive, it is likely to spell the end for Darwin Nunez at Anfield.

Reports have strongly suggested that Nunez will leave Liverpool this summer after three years of never fully convincing with the Reds.

But according to former Liverpool defender Steve Nicol, Slot could actually be making a mistake by letting the Uruguayan leave.

Photo by AIZAR RALDES/AFP via Getty Images

Having scored only seven goals all season, the writing has long been on the wall for Nunez this summer.

With interest from Saudi Arabia, it feels for all the world like the 25-year-old will be cutting his ties with Liverpool at the end of the campaign.

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But asked whether Slot should keep Nunez for another year instead, Nicol told ESPN FC that he would be in favour of the No.9 staying if a suitable offer does not arrive.

“I guess it depends on what the offer would be if somebody did offer for him,” said the Liverpool legend.

You’re talking about wanting to be involved in three or four tournaments, so why wouldn’t you have somebody like him?”

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Challenged that Nunez simply has not scored enough goals this season, Nicol then launched into a surprisingly passionate defence of the much-maligned Darwin.

“I tell you what, let’s get rid of everybody and worry about it afterwards!” he bellowed at presenter Dan Thomas.

Are you telling me he’s got no goals this year?

Enough goals to have him on the bench and bring him on.”

In reality, Nicol’s suggestion that Liverpool should keep Nunez unless a good offer comes in is not a particularly outlandish one.

SeasonAppearancesGoalsAssists2022/23421542023/245418132024/254075Darwin Nunez at Liverpool

Although he has disappointed at times, the Uruguay international can still be a handy player to have around.

The problem is that with two years left on his contract, Nunez’s value is only going to decrease.

Having spent such a big sum on bringing him to the club, Liverpool are always likely to face a loss when selling.

As a result, now really is the time to sell him.
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