Darwin Nunez’s Replacement? Liverpool Eye Premier League Striker as Arne Slot Seeks Reinforcements

Liverpool Open Talks with Jean-Philippe Mateta Amid Darwin Nunez Uncertainty

It wouldn’t be a proper summer transfer window without Liverpool being linked with half of Europe’s most in-form forwards — but this one might actually have some legs. In a move few saw coming, the Merseyside club has reportedly opened talks with Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, a player whose late-season form caught the eye of more than just Selhurst Park regulars. With Darwin Nunez’s future up in the air and new head coach Arne Slot seeking attacking reinforcements, Liverpool’s interest in the Frenchman marks a potentially bold shift in strategy.

According to a report from French outlet Foot Mercato, representatives from the Reds have already met with Mateta’s agent in Paris to assess the feasibility of a deal. It’s a story that has raised eyebrows — not just because of who Liverpool are targeting, but also because of what it may signal about Darwin Nunez’s standing under the new regime.

Arne Slot Wants Firepower — But Is Mateta the Answer?

Jean Philippe Mateta Crystal Palace 2025

Slot, who officially took over from Jurgen Klopp this summer, is already putting his stamp on the team. Known for his attacking, possession-based football during his time at Feyenoord, Slot is keen on ensuring his squad has enough firepower to compete on all fronts. But replacing or even supplementing Darwin Núñez with a player like Mateta isn’t the type of move that fits the usual Liverpool recruitment narrative.

Or does it?

On paper, Mateta is coming off his best Premier League season yet. The 27-year-old netted 14 goals in the 2023–24 campaign — a career high in England’s top flight — and played a pivotal role in Palace’s late-season surge under Oliver Glasner. His movement in the box, ability to hold up the ball, and — perhaps most importantly — his knack for finding the net in high-pressure moments made him a standout figure in a side not typically known for prolific scoring.

But is that enough to justify a reported €60 million (£52 million/$70 million) price tag?

That’s the million-pound question. Liverpool have historically shied away from spending big on players who aren’t seen as long-term strategic fits. Still, Slot’s arrival could mark a break from that pattern.

Darwin Nunez: A Short-Lived Era?

Darwin-Nunez

Of course, no transfer speculation would be complete without addressing the elephant in the room — Darwin Nunez. The Uruguayan striker arrived with great expectations following his move from Benfica in 2022. Yet, despite flashes of brilliance and undeniable energy, Darwin Nunez s time at Anfield has been marked by inconsistency in front of goal and, at times, questionable decision-making.

Napoli are said to be circling, and while no bid has met Liverpool’s asking price just yet, there is a growing sense that a parting of ways might benefit both parties. It’s not that Darwin Nunezisn’t talented — far from it — but perhaps he doesn’t quite fit the system Slot wants to implement. Or perhaps the club feels the return on investment would be better spent elsewhere.

Either way, Mateta’s name emerging at this point in the window feels like more than just coincidence.

Jean-Philippe Mateta: More Than Just a Stopgap?

It’s tempting to write off Mateta as a “Plan B” — someone who’s being considered simply because other targets are too expensive or unavailable. But dig a little deeper, and there’s a case to be made for why he might actually be a strong stylistic fit for Liverpool under Slot.

For starters, Mateta thrives in transitional moments — something Liverpool have often exploited to great effect. He’s also physical enough to lead the line on his own, while possessing enough technical quality to link up with attacking midfielders and wingers. In a system where full-backs push high and the front three interchange constantly, having a forward who can play with his back to goal and finish with either foot could prove invaluable.

Moreover, he’s shown he can score in the Premier League. That matters. This isn’t a player who needs time to adjust to the pace and physicality of English football. He’s already been through that — and he’s come out the other side looking like a striker entering his prime.

A Surprise Link — But Not a Random One

The idea of Mateta in a Liverpool shirt might take some getting used to for fans. He’s not a superstar. He’s not a household name. But neither were Sadio Mané or Mohamed Salah when they arrived. Liverpool’s recruitment team — now operating with Slot’s input — has earned the benefit of the doubt when it comes to identifying under-the-radar talent.

Also worth noting: Mateta has also been linked with a move to AC Milan and even Manchester United in recent weeks, indicating that Liverpool aren’t the only top club monitoring his situation.

That said, Crystal Palace will not be in any rush to sell. Under Glasner, the Eagles have ambitions of pushing further up the table, and keeping Mateta would be central to that project. It will likely take a sizeable offer — potentially in that €60 million range — to even bring them to the table.

What About Diogo Jota?

Amid all this transfer chatter, it’s easy to forget that Liverpool also suffered a major blow with the tragic loss of Diogo Jota this summer. The Portuguese forward’s untimely passing sent shockwaves through the football world and left a gaping emotional and tactical hole in Liverpool’s squad.

While no new signing can or should be seen as a “replacement” for Jota, the reality is that his absence does create a need for another reliable forward. Jota was a master at popping up with crucial goals, whether starting or coming off the bench. His versatility and timing in the box were unmatched — traits that Mateta, interestingly, also brings to the table in his own way.

The Dominoes May Yet Fall

Right now, Liverpool appear to be doing their due diligence. No official bid has been lodged, and much depends on what happens with Darwin Nunez in the coming weeks. Napoli remain interested but hesitant to meet Liverpool’s asking price. If they do — or if another suitor enters the mix — expect things to move quickly.

For now, Mateta remains a name to watch. His camp is open to discussions, and Liverpool are exploring their options. That, in itself, tells us plenty about how Arne Slot is thinking about reshaping this squad.

What’s Next?

Liverpool’s pre-season continues with a friendly against AC Milan on July 26 — a fixture that could offer more clues about how Slot intends to line up his squad heading into the new season. Will Darwin Nunez still be involved? Will there be a surprise appearance from a new face?

Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: The Reds are preparing for change. And Jean-Philippe Mateta could be a surprising — yet savvy — part of that plan.