Jurgen Klopp's dream attacking partnership could finally materialise this summer — just not at Liverpool. During his final season at Anfield, the former Reds manager was keen to sign Anthony Gordon but Liverpool failed to convince Newcastle to sell the winger.
Two years later, Gordon has secured a £70million transfer to Barcelona, creating the possibility of a fascinating revival of one of Klopp's old transfer plans. Reports suggest the Spanish champions are also considering a move for ex-Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez, who left for Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Hilal last year.
If Nunez ends up at the Camp Nou, Barcelona could assemble the attacking duo Klopp once hoped to build on Merseyside. Gordon's speed and willingness to drive forward could blend effectively with the Uruguayan's tireless movement and strength in the final third.
Barcelona's Search for a Striker
With Robert Lewandowski expected to move on this summer, Barcelona are in the market for a new leading figure in their attack. However, after spending heavily to bring in Gordon, the club are now looking at less expensive solutions for the centre forward position.
Nunez has therefore emerged as a potential target. The former Liverpool striker joined Al-Hilal in a £46m transfer last summer, but his stock has declined significantly over the past year. The signing of Karim Benzema not long after Nunez arrived saw the Uruguayan slip down the hierarchy and he was eventually left out of Al-Hilal's squad for the remainder of the campaign. Consequently, he has not featured for the club since February.
Even with limited opportunities, Nunez managed nine goals in 24 appearances for the Saudi club. That return represented an improvement on the seven goals he scored across 47 matches in his final season with Liverpool. Although he netted 40 times overall for the Reds, he ultimately fell short of expectations attached to the £85m fee Liverpool invested to acquire him.
That disappointing track record has not discouraged Barcelona, who seem prepared to take a chance on the 26-year-old finding top form again. Nevertheless, expecting Nunez to immediately replace Lewandowski's goal output would be a considerable gamble.
Rashford's Situation Complicates Matters
The risk would be reduced if Barcelona were also able to complete a deal for Marcus Rashford. The Manchester United forward spent the 2025/26 campaign on loan at the Camp Nou and remains interested in making the switch a permanent one. Discussions between the clubs have continued for months, but Barcelona have yet to activate Rashford's £26m release clause.
Gordon's arrival may have made Rashford's route to Catalonia more complicated, yet the possibility of a transfer remains alive. Whether through a full-time move or another loan arrangement, talks are still ongoing as Barcelona continue to assess their options.
