Jurgen Klopp has shut down speculation suggesting that Darwin Nunez could leave Liverpool this summer.
Nunez has been linked with an exit from Liverpool after removing all images of himself in the club’s colours from social media, having been named as a substitute for the second successive game against Tottenham last weekend.
The Uruguayan has 18 goals and 13 assists in all competitions this season but has faced criticism for wastefulness around goal, with the forward having the biggest xG underperformance in the Premier League.
Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and Chelsea have been credited with interest in the 24-year-old, though Klopp has rejected suggestions Nunez could leave Anfield.
“There is what?…There is no speculation. That must be an external speculation because I don’t know about it but maybe. There is no speculation right now, that is the situation we are in.,” Klopp said at his pre-match press conference ahead of facing Aston Villa on Monday night.
“Yes, Darwin was not happy missing that chance (against Spurs), he is unlucky because that could have changed now. Unlucky in so many situations when he is doing everything right but the ball still doesn’t go in – for a young man that is really tough. He knows about expectations, on himself that’s tough.
“There’s no alternative than going through it, that’s what he’s doing right now. That is part of a footballer’s career. His problem is he’s that good he’s constantly in these moments. If he’s not good he will not have chances. He’s that good he’s in those moments where he can finish it off, but now he’s not finishing it off.”
