Rio Ferdinand makes ‘different’ Darwin Núñez prediction at Liverpool after $92m Man Utd transfer

Darwin Nez’s first season at Liverpool was compared by Rio Ferdinand to what he expects from Manchester United’s most recent transfer-market purchase.
This season, Darwin Nez will demonstrate his true potential and turn into a prominent performer for Liverpool, predicts Rio Ferdinand.
The Uruguayan forward struggled to maintain consistency in his first season at Anfield, showing occasional flashes of brilliance. The competition for spots in Jürgen Klopp’s starting lineup is getting fierce, so Néez will have a difficult time getting in.
Rasmus Hjlund recently agreed to a deal worth $92 million (£72 million/€83 million) with Ferdinand’s former team Manchester United, following Liverpool’s lead in purchasing young forwards with long-term promise. The Serie A team Atalanta’s 20-year-old Danish striker, who joined Manchester United from them, is expected to lead the line.
Ferdinand drew comparisons between Hjlund and Nez, saying that both players could need some time to adjust to their new clubs, just like the Reds forward did.
According to the Liverpool ECHO, the former England defender said: “The first thing you’ve got to look at is there’s huge potential (in Hjlund).” Anyone who has watched him play will notice that he has qualities you would want. He will fit in well in the Premier League.
“I believe he has lost control of the price tag. I compare it to Liverpool native Nez. His season of adjustment was last year. He is a youthful striker entering the league, and he perfectly suits the Premier League, but things didn’t work out as planned.
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But I believe Liverpool will field a different player this year. Although I’d prefer for Hjlund to have a stronger season, I wouldn’t be surprised if it occurs.
“He may well do, but it will take time to adjust. The attributes are there, but you’re going to be paying big.”
Having netted 15 times in all competitions during the last campaign, Núñez has enjoyed a productive pre-season with Liverpool, featuring in all four friendlies and contributing four goals and one assist. Liverpool’s pre-season concludes with a match against Bundesliga newcomers Darmstadt at Deepdale on Monday.