Liverpool transfer reunion branded 'bad idea' as Arne Slot favourite told to leave

As Liverpool's summer transfer window swings open, former Reds striker Emile Heskey has ignited debate by branding a potential return for Darwin Nunez as a 'bad idea' and suggesting it's time for Cody Gakpo, a former favorite under Arne Slot, to seek a move elsewhere. These pointed remarks underscore the immense pressure on new head coach Andoni Iraola as he navigates his crucial first transfer period, aiming to reshape the squad following significant departures and a mixed previous season. The speculation surrounding Nunez is particularly noteworthy, with reports from Uruguay initially claiming his sensational return from Al-Hilal was 'done,' only for transfer guru Fabrizio Romano and club insiders to swiftly deny any ongoing talks. Meanwhile, Gakpo's future hangs in the balance, with his performances for both Liverpool and the Netherlands at the ongoing World Cup 2026 drawing criticism for their 'predictability,' sparking interest from clubs like Tottenham Hotspur and Bayern Munich. Concurrently, Liverpool is battling to retain highly-rated 17-year-old prospect Rio Ngumoha, fending off strong advances from Bayern Munich, with the club reportedly 'fuming' over alleged personal terms agreements and keen to secure his long-term future. Iraola's immediate challenge is clear: build a squad capable of competing at the highest level while managing the legacies of departing stalwarts like Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson. Having already secured his first signing in Spain international Victor Muñoz, and with strong links to talents like RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande and Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton, the next few weeks will be critical. The strategic decisions made now, particularly around player retention and targeted acquisitions, will set the tone for Liverpool's new era and determine their trajectory in the fiercely competitive Premier League and Champions League campaigns ahead.