Peter Crouch and Michael Owen have both been waxing lyrical about the abilities of Darwin Nunez amid Arsenal’s reported transfer interest. The Gunners have been linked with a move for the Uruguayan for some time, with Mikel Arteta understood to be keen on adding to his forward options ahead of next season.
Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah are both out of contract this summer, with each expected to wave goodbye to the Emirates Stadium. That would leave Arsenal without a recognised senior striker before the 2022/23 campaign.
Nunez has been noted as a potential candidate to fill that vacancy after he has plundered 27 goals in all competitions for Benfica this term. It is suggested that they could have competition for his services, with Manchester United and West Ham United having also emerged as admirers.
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Whilst it remains to be seen where the 22-year-old will be playing next season, it is clear that he has already left a mark on supporters alike.
Speaking on BT Sport ahead of Liverpool’s Champions League clash with Benfica, Crouch said: "I think Manchester United were looking at him. Suarez and Cavani, he plays up front with them for Uruguay and I think he’s got something like 27 goals in all competitions this year.
"He’s obviously going to be a big threat. Set pieces as well, he’s good in the air and against Ajax they (Benfica) were very good at set pieces."
Meanwhile, fellow ex-forward Owen also hailed the forward’s abilities and is expecting him to seal a big-money transfer sooner rather than later.
He said "He’s a great shape for starters. Nowadays, if you’re going to lead the line on your own you’ve got to have a real presence and he’s got that. He’s got size, he’s good in the air and he’s quick as well. He’s deceptively quick.
"Only 22-years-old. You think of how many decent strikers Uruguay have had in the past, and this lad looks like the next on the conveyor belt. He could be the next one to join a top European club, he’s got plenty about him."
In the end, Nunez had an impact on the clash with Liverpool - reducing the deficit with a predatory finish after Ibrahima Konate and Sadio Mane had netted for the visitors.
