Darwin’s Dilemma, Mateta’s Moment and the Isak Impasse: Where Next for Liverpool’s No.9 Role?

Liverpool’s search for a new frontman continues to dominate the conversation across fan channels and podcasts, and on the latest edition of Big Decisions on Anfield Index, Jack McIndoe and Lewis Aspinall dug deep into the forward puzzle facing Arne Slot’s Premier League-winning side. With Darwin Nunez’s future in limbo and links to Jean-Philippe Mateta and Alexander Isak intensifying, the Reds have tough calls to make.

Nunez on the Brink

Darwin Nunez’s Liverpool journey has been defined by moments of brilliance and infuriating inconsistency. As Aspinall noted bluntly, “We need to be realistic, man.” Despite some key goals — including “the back heels against Madrid and Brentford” — Lewis believes the body of work across three years is enough for Liverpool to consider parting ways.

“I would’ve took Napoli’s last bid in all honesty,” he admitted, referencing a reported £43–50 million offer. “I think we’re pricing him out the market in the desperate hope that clubs are going to panic buy because they can’t get their hands on an Ékitike or an Osimhen.”

Jack acknowledged the bittersweet sentiment shared by many Reds, who admire Nunez’s passion but recognise the system under Arne Slot may not suit his erratic profile. “He has a skill set that benefits Liverpool,” Lewis said, “but that skill set is shown so few and far between in Slot’s system.”

As for whether Darwin will still be wearing red come September, Lewis was clear: “I think he’s gone. I don’t see him being a Liverpool player next season beyond the window.”

Mateta as the New Origi?

One of the surprise links this summer is Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta. While not a headline-grabber like Isak or Ékitike, the Frenchman has his admirers, including Lewis.

“You don’t sign a Jean-Philippe Mateta to be your starter week in week out,” he clarified, “you sign Mateta as a capable backup.” Comparing him to cult heroes like Divock Origi and Peter Crouch, he praised Mateta’s physicality and aerial threat: “He’s a physical powerhouse who will shoot from any angle. He’s someone who can add a different dimension to Liverpool’s play.”

Jack pressed on whether Arne Slot could improve Mateta. “No,” came Lewis’ honest reply, “and I don’t think that’s a bad thing.” Instead, Mateta’s value lies in his simplicity: “You just need him to be in the right position… sometimes I’m fine with the Peter Crouch on the bench.”

At £30 million and with 30 goals across the last two seasons, Lewis summed up Mateta as “a bargain” for the right role.

Isak the Ideal, But Will It Happen?

Of course, the headline act in this conversation is Alexander Isak. With Newcastle reportedly close to signing Hugo Ékitike, many are wondering if it’s a precursor to Isak’s sale — and if Liverpool are the club preparing a big move.

“I think that’s us,” Lewis said confidently, referring to reports of an £85 million bid for Ékitike, which he believes indicates Liverpool’s pursuit of Isak. “If we don’t get Isak, I think we get Ékitike.”

When asked directly if he believed Isak would arrive at Anfield this summer, Lewis didn’t hesitate: “Yes. I think there is every possibility.” He even went further, calling it potentially “the best summer window we have had in the Premier League era, bar none.”

Newcastle’s financial situation may force their hand, and Isak is one of few assets who could fetch the kind of fee required to balance the books. “He represents such a high fee that you will recoup that you’re paying off the past,” Lewis explained. “If they sell him, that’s 150 million quid.”

Liverpool’s Striking Conundrum

From potential losses to potential bargains, and marquee ambitions in Isak, Liverpool’s striker situation is a microcosm of modern football’s brutal decision-making. As Lewis put it, “You’ve got to break a few eggs to make an omelette.”

Whether Nunez stays, Mateta arrives or Isak becomes the club’s most expensive signing, Arne Slot’s forward line is set for change. The only question now is: which big decision will shape Liverpool’s new attack?