Sky Sports: Slot Targets Liverpool Move for £50m “Machine” Who’s a Nunez & Isak Hybrid
At the beginning of the season, Arne Slot faced scrutiny over his tactical authenticity and whether Liverpool’s explosive start was merely an extension of Jurgen Klopp’s legacy.
Some critics suggested that the Dutchman was benefiting from the groundwork laid by his predecessor. However, such arguments have gradually lost credibility as Liverpool approach the new year confidently leading both the Premier League and Champions League tables.
The lingering intensity of Klopp’s counter-pressing style is still evident in this Liverpool side. It’s akin to a lenticular painting that shifts depending on the angle from which it’s viewed.
While certain elements may resemble Klopp’s system, there’s no denying that Slot has firmly stamped his authority on the team. He has moulded Liverpool in his vision, overcoming the immense pressure of expectation and the challenges posed by a relatively inactive summer transfer window.
| Liverpool in the Premier League – 23/24 vs 24/25 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Match Stats (per 90) | 23/24 | 24/25 |
| Goals scored | 2.11 | 2.50 |
| Goals conceded | 1.08 | 0.94 |
| Possession | 61.3 | 56.9 |
| Progressive passes | 55.5 | 47.7 |
| Progressive carries | 24.3 | 21.4 |
| Ball recoveries | 53.5 | 44.3 |
| Tackles won | 11.0 | 11.7 |
| Duels won | 48.9% | 51.2% |
| Stats Source: FBref | ||
Referencing the table above, it’s evident that Liverpool have adopted a calmer approach in their build-up play, showing less frantic energy. Despite this shift, they are scoring more goals while conceding fewer.
This balance highlights Slot’s tactical brilliance—introducing a sense of control during key phases of play while ensuring his team can unleash intense pressure when the moment calls for it.
Federico Chiesa was secured for an attention-grabbing £12.5m, but injuries have limited him to just four appearances so far. With Darwin Nunez’s future still uncertain, FSG might consider approving a marquee signing this year—potentially even within this transfer window.
Liverpool Target New Forward
According to Sky Sports, Liverpool have identified Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo as a potential signing and could make a move for him this year.
Although the club has not entirely ruled out spending in the January transfer window, addressing ongoing contractual matters at Anfield remains the primary concern. Mbeumo has become a highly sought-after player following his impressive performances in the Premier League this season.
Reliable sources indicate that Newcastle United are also interested in securing his services and are reportedly prepared to offer £50 million this month. However, their efforts might be hampered by concerns over Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
Liverpool currently have Mohamed Salah, widely regarded as the best right-winger in the world. However, with Federico Chiesa reportedly unsettled and seeking an exit, signing Mbeumo could present an ideal opportunity to strengthen Arne Slot’s already formidable attacking options.
Bryan Mbeumo’s Season in Numbers
Mbeumo has played a key role in Brentford’s impressive rise under the guidance of Thomas Frank, contributing 105 goal involvements across 222 appearances.
Since arriving from Troyes in France’s Ligue 2 in 2019, Mbeumo has cemented his status as a modern icon in west London. At just 24 years old, he is entering what many would consider the prime years of his career.
This belief is well-founded. Widely recognised as one of the Premier League’s most dynamic forwards, his goal against Arsenal on New Year’s Day marked his 45th since the start of the 2022/23 season. This tally places him seventh among Premier League scorers during that period, just one spot behind Alexander Isak.
| Premier League – Top Scorers 24/25 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | Player | Apps | Goals |
| 1. | Mohamed Salah | 18 | 17 |
| 2. | Erling Haaland | 19 | 14 |
| 3. | Alexander Isak | 17 | 12 |
| 3. | Cole Palmer | 19 | 12 |
| 5. | Bryan Mbeumo | 19 | 11 |
| 5. | Chris Wood | 19 | 11 |
| Sourced Source: Premier League | |||
Mbeumo is consistently in the right place, chasing down goals, but his contributions go far beyond just scoring. According to FBref, he ranks in the top 9% of his positional peers in the Premier League this season for shot-creating actions and progressive passes. Additionally, he sits in the top 12% for progressive carries and successful take-ons, and the top 14% for tackles per 90 minutes. He truly is an all-around talent.
These impressive statistics have drawn comparisons to players like Alexander Isak and Darwin Núñez among forwards in Europe’s top five leagues. While Núñez has his imperfections, his raw energy and unpredictability were qualities that convinced Liverpool to invest heavily in him.
As for Isak, his quality speaks for itself. It’s easy to imagine Liverpool being drawn to a forward who could replicate the skill and impact the Newcastle striker consistently delivers.
A Darwin Nunez & Alexander Isak Hybrid
Imagine a player who blends the qualities of both Darwin Núñez and Alexander Isak. Picture the type of forward such a combination would produce. Bryan Mbeumo has the potential to be that kind of striker for Liverpool—a versatile attacker capable of operating as a central number nine or shifting out wide to the flanks.
It’s a tantalising prospect. Arne Slot has already shown, through the effective deployment of Diogo Jota and Luis Díaz, that he is more than willing to utilise wide players in central striking roles with great success.
For instance, Mbeumo has netted 20 Premier League goals since the summer of 2023, missing only 14 big chances during that period, according to Sofascore.
In comparison, Isak, regarded as one of Europe’s most clinical finishers, has missed 30 big chances since the 2023/24 season, though he has still managed to score 33 goals. Núñez, on the other hand, has scored just 13 Premier League goals in the same timeframe while also missing 30 big chances—matching Isak’s total in a far less flattering light.
It makes for difficult reading for supporters of Núñez. However, they can take comfort in the fact that Liverpool’s unpredictable forward remains a valuable asset, using his athleticism and relentless energy to create opportunities and drive the team forward.
Núñez ranks in the top 14% of forwards across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for progressive carries and the top 3% for tackles per 90 minutes—an impressive feat. Yet Mbeumo could bring a different dynamic to Liverpool’s attack, offering a blend of tactical intelligence, precision, and a sharp cutting edge to complement Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo.
While Mbeumo may not possess the same ball-striking prowess as Isak, Liverpool could replicate Isak’s impact in their own unique way. And that would be more than sufficient. Under Slot, Liverpool arguably boast the most formidable frontline in English football, and adding Mbeumo—described by producer Michael Johnston as an “output machine”—would only enhance their attacking threat. It really is that straightforward.
In other news, Alexis Mac Allister Explains Mistake Liverpool Cannot Afford to Make Ahead of Man United
