Liverpool have four options to replace Darwin Nunez as star 'says yes' to transfer

could be about to wave goodbye to after reportedly advancing in talks over a move to Spain. The divisive forward has struggled to live up to expectations since joining the Reds from Benfica three years ago. His patchy form has led to the possibility of a summer exit, with one of La Liga's biggest clubs said to be keen on snapping him up.

Atletico Madrid are reportedly in advanced negotiations to sign Nunez, with talks ongoing at club level. The player himself is thought to be eager to make a fresh start in the Spanish capital next season. If he does leave, it will force Liverpool into the transfer market in search of an adequate replacement.

Express Sport takes a look at four players who could be among the standout candidates...

Florian Wirtz

Florian Wirtz has been linked with many top clubs in Europe and Liverpool are said to be firmly in the hunt. Last week, it was reported by that he flew to England with his parents to hold talks with the Reds.

However, the massive costs involved might put a deal out of Liverpool's reach. Manchester City have reportedly backed out of negotiations after concluding that , inclusive of a transfer fee, wages and bonuses.

Wirtz would probably be the best option to replace Nunez, but actually bringing him to Anfield will be easier said than done.

Hugo Ekitike

A much cheaper alternative would be Hugo Ekitike, who has been ripping it up at Eintracht Frankfurt this season. He has bagged 22 goals in all competitions and has plenty of room for additional growth at just 22 years old.

The Frenchman has been linked with a Premier League move for a number of years and it could soon become a reality, with Frankfurt director Markus Krosche admitting that he could leave for the right price.

Krosche told : "It's our belief: if a player develops faster than us, then we let him go, as long as our demands are met."

Bryan Mbeumo

Liverpool may also decide to look closer to home by pursuing a move for Brentford talisman Bryan Mbeumo. Over the last few years, he has shown consistency and quality in equal measure and might be ready to step up to a bigger club.

The race for his signature is likely to involve several teams, with the likes of Manchester United and Newcastle said to be circling. It suggests Liverpool will need to act quickly to secure his services ahead of the competition.

It would make sense for the Reds to target a player who is already proven in the Premier League and Mbeumo certainly fits the bill.

Yoane Wissa

Mbeumo's team-mate Yoane Wissa could be a left-field option for Liverpool to replace Nunez this summer. He has managed 18 league goals for Brentford this season and is capable of excelling anywhere in a front three.

It has been reported that both players could leave the Bees in advance of next season. Brentford are said to be bracing themselves for summer bids, with Nottingham Forest already said to be considering a move for Wissa.

He would not be the most eye-catching signing for Liverpool but is more than capable of delivering a higher output than Nunez, especially with better players around him.