Barcelona are reportedly keen to move for Liverpool's Darwin Nunez this summer, viewing the Uruguay international as the ideal replacement for Robert Lewandowski.
The Catalan outfit's head coach Xavi recently refused to rule out a summer departure for Lewandowski, with the 35-year-old's future the subject of much speculation.
The Poland international has scored 24 times in all competitions this season, in addition to contributing nine assists, while he has another two years left to run on his contract at Camp Nou.
However, Barcelona are under pressure to make some sales this summer, and Lewandowski's exit would also see a large salary removed from the wage budget.
According to The Sun, Xavi's team have identified Nunez as a target amid suggestions that the forward could leave Liverpool when this summer's transfer window opens for business.
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Barcelona 'keen to explore summer move for Darwin Nunez'
The report claims that Barcelona are confident that they will be able to meet Liverpool's asking price for Nunez despite their well-documented financial problems.
There remains speculation surrounding Mohamed Salah's future at Anfield, while the Merseyside giants are facing the monumental task of replacing inspirational head coach Jurgen Klopp this summer.
Feyenoord manager Arne Slot is widely expected to replace Klopp, and it is likely to be a busy upcoming transfer window for the Reds.
There has been criticism of Nunez's finishing throughout his time at Anfield, especially this season, but the forward has managed to score 18 goals and contribute 13 assists in 51 appearances this term.
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Liverpool are believed to be open to selling the forward
Meanwhile, the South American has 33 goals and 17 assists in 93 appearances for Liverpool since his arrival from Benfica in the summer of 2022.
Nunez is allegedly content at Liverpool and will not force a summer exit, but he is said to be attracted by the possibility of representing Barcelona.
The Catalan team had also been planning to replace their manager at the end of the season, with Xavi announcing at the end of January that he would be standing down this summer.
However, Xavi has since changed his mind, and he will enter the 2024-25 campaign as Barcelona's head coach.
Blaugrana will be looking to wrestle the La Liga title back from Real Madrid next season, with Carlo Ancelotti's side being confirmed as champions for the 2023-24 campaign on Saturday.
Matt Law
