Mohamed Salah could solve Diogo Jota problem if Liverpool sign Darwin Nunez

  /  Ronaldoyyds

Liverpool are attempting to sign Darwin Nunez after the Benfica talisman experienced a momentous upturn in form this season, scoring 32 goals in all competitions including two against Jurgen Klopp's men in the Champions League.

The Reds seem to be replacing Sadio Mane with a true marksman. Nunez is a natural poacher in the penalty box, proving to be a nightmare for opponents to track and defend against.

The 22-year-old is quick, strong and, having scored seven goals with his head this season, good in the air, standing around 6ft 2in. Liverpool seem convinced by what he offers as they are willing to pay big in order to land his signature.

Although Nunez is more in the mould of an orthodox striker in comparison to the rest of Klopp's forward options, he does have a tendency to drift toward the left side of the pitch.

Benfica used him on the left on a number of occasions this season. He's a keen dribbler when assuming possession on the flanks and he likes to carry the ball over large distances when on the ball in deeper areas.

He will bolster Liverpool's attack next season if he joins, but it is curious how many of his traits are shared by Diogo Jota.

Much like the man who the Reds are trying to sign, the Portuguese international is also regarded as a poacher. He's good in the air, likes the left side of the field, and tends to carry and dribble when in possession.

Overall, it is reasonable to suggest the two are similar across the board.

Aside from Nunez's height, there doesn't appear to be many differences between the two players, which poses the question as to how Jota will be deployed moving forward if the transfer gets completed as planned.

Nunez will likely occupy the striker role considering his price tag. That could force Jota to occupy the left flank, but Luis Diaz also prefers that side. With Mohamed Salah almost guaranteed to be fielded on the right, Jota's place in the side remains to be seen.

For the next year, the 25-year-old could almost be deployed as a utility man of sorts. He is arguably Klopp's most versatile forward - that is one of his biggest perks - and he's certainly the most two-footed.

Jota can adapt to different roles and with Nunez as a new player and Diaz set to experience his first full season in England, his presence in the squad will be valuable, even if he doesn't start every week. Klopp could use Jota as a blank canvas to be shaped depending on what he requires and who is available.

Further down the line, if Salah departs Merseyside when his contract expires in 2023, perhaps Jota could end up being his heir on the right, although it remains to be seen as to whether Liverpool will try to find a left-footed forward to replace the Egyptian instead.

Ultimately, the arrival of Nunez suggests that Jota's role will always be prone to change but thankfully, he's flexible enough to contribute regardless.

Related: Liverpool Benfica Salah Jota Nunez
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