Liverpool 'opens talks' with potential Darwin Nunez replacement as phone call regarding highly-rated forward revealed

Liverpool have opened talks to sign one of the most sought-after strikers in Europe, according to reports, as Darwin Nunez continues to be linked with a move away from Anfield.

It emerged on Monday night that Liverpool have turned down a 'verbal offer' in the region of £70 million for out-of-form striker Nunez.

Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal are said to be the club who submitted the big-money offer, according to Sam Maguire, who suggests the Premier League leaders are willing to strike a deal for £75 million.

Arne Slot's side have scored the most goals in England's top flight this season, netting 47 times in 19 games. Mohamed Salah has bagged 18 of those, while Luis Diaz [8] and Cody Gakpo [6] have also contributed to their fine form.

But Nunez has netted just twice in the Premier League this season. Fabrizio Romano delivered an update on the Uruguayan's future on his YouTube channel.

“What I can confirm at the moment is only that interest from Saudi in Darwin Nunez is genuine,” he said. “There have been conversations to understand the situation of Darwin, the price tag and all these sorts of things.

“For sure there is something in terms of contacts but at the moment there is nothing advanced in terms of negotiations."

Romano added: “We have to respect Liverpool – Darwin is an important player for them and they spent important money on him. There are still plenty of things to do and at the moment, we are not at that stage.”

Amid rumours surrounding Nunez's future at Anfield, a separate report has emerged that suggests Liverpool have 'started talks' with German side FC Nurnberg regarding a summer transfer for centre-forward Stefanos Tzimas.

In fact, Sky reporter Florian Plettenberg claims a phone call between Liverpool and FC Nurnberg has already taken place in recent days.

Tzimas is attracting plenty of interest. Image credit: Getty

Tzimas, who has recorded eight goals and two assists in 15 appearances this season, is currently on loan at the 2. Bundesliga side from Greek team PAOK.

FC Nurnberg are planning to activate an £15.1 million buy option with the intention of selling him directly in the summer and, in a recent interview with BILD, the club's sporting director appeared to open the door to doing business.

“We won’t give up any top performers in the winter, but with a view to the summer, we are of course already looking at a few options," said Olaf Rebbe.

If they do decide to press forward with a move, then Liverpool will likely have plenty of competition.

A number of Premier League clubs are said to interested in the Greek forward, including Aston Villa, Chelsea and Brighton, while Plettenberg claims 'many' Bundesliga clubs are also keen on signing the youngest goalscorer in PAOK's history.