Liverpool’s post-Klopp period is taking form beneath Arne Slot, and one of many largest speaking factors within the Anfield Index podcast that includes Dave Davis and Dr Phil Barts has been the membership’s subsequent main signing in assault. The controversy revolves across the potential departure of Darwin Núñez and Luis Díaz, which might pave the way in which for a brand new versatile ahead.
One identify that stood out of their evaluation is Matheus Cunha, at present at Wolves. Davis and Barts ran the numbers, contemplating his versatility, attacking output, and urgent capability, and a powerful case emerged for why Liverpool ought to severely contemplate him.
Matheus Cunha’s Versatility – A Key Asset
Dr Phil Barts was significantly passionate about Cunha’s capability to play a number of roles throughout the frontline. “He’s bought critical minutes on the wing with Atletico and Pink Bull as effectively, performed the ten, so versatility comes into it,” he identified. This adaptability may very well be essential for Slot’s tactical flexibility.
At Liverpool, the dearth of high-intensity, multi-positional attackers has been evident. With Díaz struggling for type and accidents affecting squad rotation, Cunha’s capability to modify between roles seamlessly may very well be a serious increase.
Velocity and Urgent – The Liverpool Manner
Liverpool’s greatest attacking sides have thrived on pace and urgent, one thing Barts highlighted as a key trait of Cunha. “That will give us a particular attacking output at tempo… almost 34kph prime pace is an distinctive pace,” he famous.
Davis chimed in on Cunha’s work fee off the ball, evaluating him to a well-recognized determine in Liverpool’s previous. “Is there an argument that Cunha is sort of the closest to Bobby that we’ve seen or profiled thus far on the present?” The suggestion that Cunha might replicate features of Roberto Firmino’s false 9 position is intriguing, significantly in a system that calls for clever motion and selfless urgent.
Targets and Worth – A £62m Cut price?
One of the crucial essential factors made within the dialogue was round Cunha’s worth in comparison with alternate options like Alexander Isak. Barts was clear in his evaluation:
“We all know Cunha has a set price of £62 million in his launch clause. It’s not a small quantity, however by way of wanting somebody to play as your 9 or ahead within the Premier League, it’s not large cash both.”
In comparison with Newcastle’s Isak, who might price over £100 million, Cunha presents a financially smarter deal whereas nonetheless providing high-level output. His report of 13 objectives and 4 assists this season makes him a direct contributor to 17 purpose involvements—numbers that recommend he can add much-needed firepower to Liverpool’s assault.
What Does Liverpool Want?
The Anfield Index podcast made it clear that Liverpool should determine what kind of attacker they prioritise. As Barts summarised:
“It could be a case of what output you need – the creativity or the purpose aspect.”
If Liverpool desires a Firmino-style false 9, Cunha matches. In the event that they’re after a pure goal-getter, Isak will be the higher match. However contemplating value, versatility, and enjoying fashion, Cunha might provide the most effective stability of all three.
Closing Ideas – Ought to Liverpool Signal Cunha?
With Liverpool set for a tactical evolution beneath Slot, Matheus Cunha affords a cheap, high-intensity ahead choice that aligns with the membership’s philosophy. His capability to play throughout the entrance line, drop into midfield when wanted, and press with depth makes him a great candidate to exchange Darwin Núñez.
At £62 million, this may very well be some of the clever strikes Liverpool makes this summer season. As Dr Phil Barts put it:
“For that value, you’d be hard-pressed to discover a extra likable participant.”