Darwin Núñez 'eyed for major transfer' while Liverpool 'prepares big contract' for defender

Liverpool could be tested when it comes to the future of Darwin Núñez in the summer, while there's one player it definitely wants to tie down. Here's your round-up of the latest Liverpool news.

Barcelona 'considers' Darwin Núñez transfer

Liverpool forward Darwin Núñez is on the transfer radar of Barcelona. That's according to a rather roundabout report in the Spanish outlet Sport, which cites unspecified claims in England.

Immediately, this has the stench of idle transfer gossip, with the window now drawing ever closer. But there's little doubt that Barcelona will be on the lookout for longer-term striking solutions in the summer, with Robert Lewandowski set to turn 36.

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Meanwhile, though there's no indication Núñez will be on the market, Liverpool would have to think long and hard if a bid came in. The Uruguayan has had two seasons at Anfield now, with his time at the club overwhelmingly characterized by sub-standard finishing, although his elite knack for getting chances continues to stand out too.

Some of the decision over the striker's future is likely to lie with Arne Slot, while Michael Edwards and new sporting director Richard Hughes will also have a major say. There's a school of thought that the data-led approach is likely to favor keeping Núñez, in anticipation of a reversion to even average finishing that would see him become hugely prolific, but nor can consistent underperformance of expected goals simply be brushed under the carpet.

Time will tell if a Barcelona bid is actually forthcoming, and the answer is likely to be 'no'. But this story brings to the fore the questions swirling around Núñez as Slot prepares to launch a new era at Liverpool.

Liverpool readies new contract

Liverpool is preparing to offer a new contract to Jarell Quansah. That's per the Mirror. Quansah has been one of the season's major success stories. Playing a more prominent role than expected following an injury to Joël Matip, he has hardly put a foot wrong, and it wouldn't be totally outrageous to suggest he has outperformed Ibrahima Konaté.

Clearly seeing him as part of the long-term plan, Liverpool intends to offer him a 'substantial' pay rise, despite only agreeing a new contract a year ago. Talks are expected in the coming weeks, with a new deal set to be 'lucrative' for Quansah.

Liverpool is still intending to add a left-sided center-back in the summer transfer window. A recruit would provide further depth alongside Quansah, while also contributing to the succession plan for 32-year-old Virgil van Dijk. William Pacho of Eintracht Frankfurt is believed to be of interest.