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 £70m 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.
The partnership Klopp never got
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.
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 on Gordon, the club are now looking at less expensive solutions for the centre forward position.
Nunez’s decline
Nunez has emerged as a potential target. The former Liverpool striker joined AlHilal 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. He was eventually left out of AlHilal’s squad for the remainder of the campaign and 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 the expectations attached to the £85m fee Liverpool invested to acquire him.
The Rashford complication
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.
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 permanent.
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.
The bottom line
Klopp wanted Gordon and Nunez together at Liverpool. He got neither.
Now Barcelona could pair them at the Camp Nou. Gordon is already there. Nunez could follow.
The Uruguayan’s stock has fallen. His time in Saudi Arabia was a disaster. But Barcelona are willing to take a chance.
Rashford remains an option too. But Gordon’s arrival complicates that.
One thing is clear: Klopp’s dream attacking duo is still alive. It’s just wearing different colours now.
Liverpool fans will watch with interest. And a little regret.
