Arne Slot preparing stunning raid on Premier League rivals to sign Darwin Nunez ‘replacement’

Liverpool’s new boss Arne Slot is reportedly targeting a Premier League star to replace Darwin Nunez.

Back in the summer of 2022, it was confirmed that Liverpool and Benfica had agreed a fee believed to be €75 million for the transfer of Nunez.

The Uruguayan caught the eye after scoring 26 goals in 28 league matches for the Portuguese club.

However, the 24-year-old has so far struggled to adapt to English football and has often been criticised for missing big chances.

Towards the end of the 23/24 season, Nunez cast doubt over his future after removing Liverpool-related pictures from his Instagram account.

Reds fans have also slammed Nunez for ‘not applauding’ during Jurgen Klopp’s farewell ceremony at Anfield.

Ahead of the summer transfer window, it has been claimed that Nunez’s place in the squad could be at risk.

As reported by The Sun, England star Ollie Watkins is admired by Slot and Aston Villa are braced for a bid from Liverpool.

The report stated that the Reds have doubts over Nunez, who has recently been linked with a move to Spanish La Liga giants Barcelona.

During the 23/24 season, Nunez managed 11 goals and eight assists in 36 matches in the Premier League.

However, the striker failed to find the back of the net in his last 10 games for the club and could now be replaced.

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Watkins, 28, enjoyed a stellar season under Unai Emery as he played a key role in Villa’s successful charge for Champions League qualification.

In 53 matches across all competitions this season, Watkins managed 27 goals and 13 assists, the best return of his career to date.

As a result, Watkins was named in Gareth Southgate’s provisional England squad ahead of this summer’s Euro 2024.

However, the former Brentford man faces tough competition from the likes of Harry Kane and Ivan Toney.

Villa will be in a strong position to keep hold of Watkins after he signed a new deal last year that runs until 2028.

Upon signing his new contract, he said: “I feel like this is the best place for me to play my football. I've still got a lot to achieve here.”