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Liverpool secured their second consecutive league victory when they beat Newcastle United at St James’ Park on Saturday, however, Jurgen Klopp may have now been dealt a devastating blow ahead of the Champions League clash with Real Madrid.

What’s the latest on Darwin Nunez’s injury?

The Athletic’s Liverpool reporter James Pearce has confirmed that Darwin Nunez will be a doubt for the challenging meeting with Carlo Ancelotti’s side this week.

Revealing in his report, the journalist said he is ‘set to undergo a scan to determine the extent of the problem.’

This came following quotes from Klopp in his press conference who commented:

“The bad news is that Darwin has something on his shoulder so we’ll have to see.

“He had to go off with that issue and we need further assessment. I don’t know (the extent) in this moment. In this moment it is painful. Hopefully, it is just painful and nothing more.”

What does Nunez’s injury mean for Klopp?

Liverpool have built up something of a European rivalry with Real Madrid over the last five years with the pair meeting on several occasions in the Champions League.

Out of the three finals the Reds have got to in the European competition under Klopp, the Spanish giants have beaten them twice and also knocked them out of the quarter-finals back in 2021, so the two-leg clash will be extremely difficult even without the injury issues and poor form Liverpool have suffered of late.

Indeed, there is a silver lining for the Liverpool boss as both Diogo Jota and Roberto Firmino have returned to action in the last week which gives him options should Nunez be unable to recover in time for the highly-anticipated game under the floodlights at Anfield on Tuesday.

However, there is no doubt that the Uruguayan’s unpredictability, pace and chaotic nature will be sorely missed in the team’s efforts to take a positive result and give Liverpool an advantage ahead of the second leg at the Bernabeu.

Over 17 league appearances, the 23-year-old ace has scored six goals, registered three assists and created a whopping nine big chances, as well as averaging 1.2 key passes, four shots on goal and winning 3.1 duels per game, proving that he is a huge presence in the attacking threat.

With that being said, being without their dangerous frontman for such a colossal tie will be a nightmare for the Reds boss. Although still incredibly raw, he has all of the tools to pose a rampant threat to Madrid’s backline.

Indeed, should he still take to the field, the youngster will be vitally important if Liverpool wish to get a good start in the tie.

Andrew Musgrove believes that Jacob Murphy will start for Newcastle United this weekend.

The Lowdown: Guimaraes to be replaced

Eddie Howe is certainly facing a selection headache ahead of Newcastle’s clash against West Ham this weekend with Bruno Guimaraes set to miss the game, which will likely see Joelinton move into midfield.

Therefore, Howe must decide who he deploys on the left-hand side of the front three with the options likely being between Allan Saint-Maximin, Anthony Gordon or Murphy with the latter having featured in every single gamer this season.

Despite only starting five times in the league this season, Murphy has indeed featured more often than Saint-Maximin overall, so it may not be a huge shock if he was handed the starting berth by Howe.

The Latest: Murphy to be handed a start

Musgrove has admitted on the Everything is Black and White podcast he believes Murphy will be given the nod by Howe ahead of Saint-Maximin, despite him being subbed on and then off again on Tuesday night.

He said: (37:00) “I spoke about this off camera with Aaron [Stokes] the other day about Saint-Maximin’s performance on Tuesday and we didn’t really want to bring anyone down because it was such a wonderful moment, Newcastle off to Wembley.

“But I just felt there were moments of his performance, especially when Newcastle went down to 10 men, that he didn’t really cover himself in the best of light, whereas Murphy comes off the bench and he did a bit more running about and a bit more effort in my view.

“So I think, he’s probably played his way into starting against West Ham.”

The Verdict: Howe has a huge decision to make

Given that Joelinton – who’s been performing admirably well on the left – will be dropped back into the midfield three alongside Joe Willock and Sean Longstaff, it would offer Howe a very easy way to get Saint-Maximin into the team.

The Frenchman has been a very important player for Newcastle over the last few years ranking near the top for both goal and shot-creating actions but his injury woes have seen him lose his sport in the side this campaign.

Howe has seemingly been unwilling to move Joelinton away from his newfound left-wing role, but with Guimaraes out it would be a huge sign of Saint-Maximin’s bleak future on Tyneside if Murphy – who’s got just 13 goal involvements during his time on Tyneside – was afforded a start ahead of him.

Tottenham Hotspur could have been handed a potential boost in their reported pursuit of the Sporting right wing-back, Pedro Porro.

What’s the latest?

Porro has been a layer who has been heavily linked with a potential move to north London this month with the Spaniard believed to be at the top of Fabio Paratici’s list.

However, there has been some concerns from inside Spurs over the player’s valuation due to the €45m (£39.5m) release clause said to be in his contract.

It is believed the Lilywhites have held further talks with Sporting over a potential deal this month and the player is said to be keen on a switch to north London.

And now, insider Graeme Bailey has said on the latest episode of the Talking Transfers podcast that there are some inside Sporting who are warming to an offer with instalments from Spurs:

“Tottenham won’t pay the full release clause which Sporting are insisting. However, we’ve learned there are some within Sporting’s hierarchy who are willing to take instalments.”

Porro the priority

It has been suggested Porro – who’s been hailed as a “special talent” – is the priority this month and considering over two weeks into the window Spurs are still pursuing him that does seem to be the case.

And it is apparent that Spurs feel the right wing-back spot is an area which they want t strengthen this month with Emerson Royal and Djed Spence linked with potential departures.

However, this does make us wonder what the plan is at Spurs if they are unable to land Porro in the remaining days of the January window.

Until Bailey’s comments, there has been the narrative that Sporting have given Spurs the ultimatum of pay his release clause or look elsewhere.

The fact Spurs are seemingly still trying to make some progress in this deal would suggest they believe Sporting could give way.

But if this does not turn out to be the case then Spurs could well be left with egg on their face and possibly even left searching the market for another option.

And this will only likely frustrate the fans who are already letting their voices be heard over their thoughts on the Tottenham owners amid their current poor form.

Spurs wanted to sign Alessandro Bastoni in the summer and ended up with Clement Lenglet. Spurs want Porro but who will they end up with?

And it is these types of transfer failings which could potentially see Antonio Conte decide his future on if he does not feel he is been adequately backed by the owners.

Scottish champions Celtic have seemingly identified another potential centre-forward solution, amid reports that the Parkhead outfit have been keeping tabs on Polish starlet, Szymon Włodarczyk.

What’s the word?

According to Football Scotland journalist Mark Hendry, the 20-year-old is reportedly a player whom the Old Firm giants have shown an interest in of late, albeit with a move having yet to materialise despite at one stage looking ‘close’.

Writing on Twitter, the transfer insider stated: “I’d heard Celtic were interested in Szymon Włodarczyk of Gornik Zabrze. Faced a lot of competition. Podolski’s favourite teammate. There was a period it was close and Celtic knew £3.5m was fee club wanted. No movement since initial approach and Cho now priority.”

As Hendry alluded to, the Hoops do appear to have turned their attention towards the signing of Jeonbuk striker Cho Gue-sung, albeit with there seemingly yet to be a breakthrough in negotiations despite a £3m offer having been lodged by Ange Postecoglou and co.

Dream Cho alternative

Should Cho – who is also said to be attracting interest from Bundesliga outfit Mainz and MLS side Minnesota United – prove too difficult to obtain, the Glasgow side could seemingly secure a dream alternative in the form of Włodarczyk, with the latter man having flourished in his homeland of late.

The “highly talented” machine – as lauded by talent scout Jacek Kulig – has scored seven goals in just 15 league games for current side Gornik Zabrze so far this term, having blossomed since making the move from Legia Warsaw during the summer.

The Poland U21 international – who has been dubbed “one of the most talented young players” in his country in previous years by the aforementioned Kulig – had previously showcased his quality for Legia’s reserve side, with 25 goals and five assists in just 43 games across all fronts.

That has indicated that the youngster clearly offers a real clinical presence in the final third, with that ensuring he could well mirror the South Korean gem, who boasts 16 goals in 45 games for his current side.

Equally, like the latter man – who has been described by journalist Pete O’Rourke as a “real handful for defenders” due to his 6 foot 2 frame – Włodarczyk can also offer a real focal point in attack, with the emerging ace an imposing presence as he also stands at 6 foot 2.

With Postecoglou and co seemingly looking to replace the powerful figure of Giorgos Giakoumakis this month, amid speculation linking the Greek international away from Scotland, it would surely be an astute move to firm up their interest in the Polish sensation sooner rather than later, particularly if progress can’t be made in the race for Cho’s signature.

Tottenham boss Antonio Conte is personally attempting a double move for Atalanta rising star Giorgio Scalvini and Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni.

The Lowdown: Spurs eye Italian duo…

Spurs have had their eye on both players according to recent reports as links between the north Londoners and Italy’s most promising talents show no sign of stopping.

Bastoni has been targeted by sporting director Fabio Paratici and Conte for quite some time, while Scalvini has emerged as a more fresh transfer possibility in recent months.

This comes as the north Londoners chase a second-consecutive Premier League finish in the top four, not to mention the Champions League riches that go with it.

The Latest: Conte ‘attempts’ double move…

According to Italian sources, Conte will require significant financial backing from club owners ENIC and chairman Daniel Levy ahead of January.

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Indeed, a report from InterLive now claims that Tottenham’s manager personally ‘attempts to attack’ the double signing of Bastoni and Scalvini – who could cost a combined marquee fee of £84 million.

It’s added that Conte will ask for both defenders if he continues to sit in the Spurs dugout and signs a contract extension.

The Verdict: Ambitious…

It will be a very difficult move to pull off and one that is perhaps a bit too far out of Paratici’s reach, but if we were to choose one of the two players to go for, it would be Bastoni.

The 23-year-old is one of Serie A’s rising stars and has already been called a ‘defensive genius’ for his work under Simone Inzaghi at the San Siro.

Indeed, the £107,000-per-week Bastoni would be a welcome addition at N17 – if they can get it done – and perhaps the perfect upgrade on the exit-linked Davinson Sanchez.

Everton could now pounce on Udinese defender Rodrigo Becao, but will face competition from Serie A leaders Napoli, according to reports.

The Lowdown: Rise to the top

Since moving to Udinese in the summer of 2019, Becao has not looked back, quickly asserting himself as a regular for the Pozzo-owned side. 

Making at least 29 appearances or more in the Serie A across the last three seasons, the 6 foot 3 colossus’ performances have seen him rated as the second best player in the Udinese squad, as per FOTMOB.

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The Latest: Everton in the fray

According to Italian outlet Tutto Udinese, as relayed by Sport Witness, the Brazilian “does not seem to be willing” to renew his contract, with Everton said to be a side who have “been following the player for some time.”

It will not be a straightforward deal though, with Napoli thought to have been in contact with the Pozzo family. 

Relayed from Messaggero Veneto, Napoli are said to be “in pole” for Becao, who likes the idea of playing Champions League football in Naples, rather than struggling with Everton.

The Verdict: Worth a try?

Despite the aforementioned statement, it is worthwhile for Everton to at least try to sign the star defender, even with Napoli’s interest in mind. 

Udinese are said to be willing to sell him as early as January, with the side looking to recoup as much as possible, with the 26-year-old’s contract expiring in the summer of 2024.

Everton’s identity as the joint-fourth best defensive team in the league is the only thing keeping them above the relegation zone, so to they will want squad bolstering options like Becao for the long term, especially with rumours that Michael Keane could depart.

Whilst the move is doubtful with Napoli sniffing around, it’s definitely worth a go.

Wolverhampton Wanderers’ current predicament in the Premier League means that they will likely be linked with many players ahead of the January window.

Sevilla defender Marcos Acuna is the latest player to be linked with a switch to Molineux, where the Argentina international would be reunited with his former manager Julen Lopetegui.

What’s the word?

According to Spanish publication Vamos mi Sevilla, Wolves are one of four clubs chasing the versatile defender ahead of the winter transfer window.

They claim that the Andalusian club want to raise at least €12m (£10.5m) from his sale, after informing the 31-year-old that he is now surplus to requirements at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan Stadium.

Although there will be plenty of interest in the experienced World Cup star, the Lopetegui factor could give Wolves an advantage in any transfer negotiations, as Acuna would make 84 appearances under the Spanish manager during his time with Sevilla.

Shi can get Molineux rocking

Of all of the defenders in Wolves’ squad this season, only Nelson Semedo and Hugo Bueno have managed an assist, which shows that the full-backs are not doing enough to contribute in attack.

Acuna has shown throughout his career, particularly in his time with Racing Club and Sporting Lisbon that he is extremely capable in the final third, with 31 goals and 61 assists to his name.

During his time with Sporting Lisbon, club president Frederico Varandas was full of praise for Acuna, saying:

“Acuna is someone who transmits his experience to the young players. He is one of the best wing-backs in the world in a three-man defensive system.”

Last season saw the left-back make 31 appearances in La Liga, in which he registered one goal and two assists, averaging an impressive 6.96 rating from WhoScored for his performances.

Only Ruben Neves has averaged a better rating in Wolves’ side this season, which emphasises the quality that he could add at Molineux.

Acuna boasts a huge amount of experience, having featured in the Champions League, Europa League and World Cup in his career thus far, and he could be exactly the type of player Lopetegui needs both on and off the pitch as he aims to get Wolves out of relegation trouble after Christmas.

The Sevilla star would certainly arrive with pedigree and his ability in attack would undoubtedly get Wolves supporters excited and get Molineux rocking again, given that home fans have witnessed just five league goals at home this season.

Therefore, chairman Jeff Shi should definitely be looking to reunite Acuna with Lopetegui in January.

Tottenham Hotspur boasts a wealth of youth talent, all of whom will be hoping to burst into the senior setup to replace some of the ageing faces amongst the team.

The likes of Dane Scarlett, Alfie Devile and Pape Matar Sarr might grab the headlines, but arguably the most well-known at the moment is Troy Parrott.

Standing at 6 foot tall, the 20-year-old already has experience far beyond his youth.

The free-scoring jewel quickly established himself as a cut above the U19 level, with nine goals and two assists in just nine games, earning him a string of loan moves which will no doubt have helped his development.

As of late, his career path seems to be following a similar track to Harry Kane, who has gone on to score 259 times for the Lilywhites.

Parrott’s career is made further eye-catching by the fact that he has already featured 15 times for the Republic of Ireland, scoring four.

His maturity and experience at this level, combined with his parent club draws eery similarities with Robbie Keane, who boasts the most goals (68) and caps (146) for his nation.

The 42-year-old would also go on to score 122 times for Spurs, and given that Parrott already has four first-team appearances under his belt, it is clear that they see a pathway into the starting squad for him eventually.

Despite having struggled this season during his most recent loan spell at Preston North End, he did grab his first league goal of the campaign before his injury has left him side-lined ever since.

Perhaps upon his return, he can rediscover that form and continue to further his development in a tougher league than his previous loans.

After signing for the Lancashire club, manager Ryan Lowe was full of praise for the young forward. He claimed:

“His work rate is phenomenal. For the size of him, he is a bit of a unit inside. He’s not massive, but very strong, uses his body very well & he got down the sides plenty of times.”

It seems Parrott boasts all the physical attributes, and with confidence knows where the goal is.

His rehabilitation will be important for him to return and hopefully emulate the Irish legend that starred for Spurs back in the day.

Frank Lampard is already looking ahead to next season in terms of improving his Everton side, with Napoli winger Hirving Lozano linked with a move to the Toffees – according to Spanish publication Marca (via Liverpool Echo).

The 27-year-old’s agent spoke recently about interest in Lozano, saying: “In my opinion, Lozano will leave next June, also because he earns over 4m (£3.5m) at Napoli.

“Even though he is delighted to be here, he has never hidden that he aspires to the top English clubs even if now he is probably realizing that Napoli itself is a top club.

“I think he can join Manchester United or Everton.”

This is encouraging news for Lampard, and he could well land his very own Bukayo Saka by making a move for Lozano, with the two comparable via FBref’s player comparison model.

Saka has been tearing it up recently at Arsenal, scoring five goals and registering four assists in all competitions this season and, despite Lozano being six years older than the Englishman, Everton could benefit from having someone similar on their right-wing providing a goalscoring threat.

Despite Saka scoring more league goals (four to two), Lozano actually averages more shots per match (4.51 to 2.42) while also generating more shot-creating actions per match (4.50 to 4.01).

The £84k-per-week Napoli winger has created more big chances than Saka this season (three to one), however, Saka just edges out Lozano in terms of key passes per match (1.9 to 1.2) – although it proves that the two are extremely attack-minded from wide positions.

Rangers Review journalist Derek Clark dubbed the Mexican as “frightening” before Napoli faced the Gers in the Champions League last night and it’s clear that Lampard needs a greater attacking output from out wide in order to take pressure off Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

If Everton did bring the player to the Premier League, the 44-year-old will be hoping that Lozano can have the same impact that Saka did for Arsenal, terrorising defences and creating an extra attacking dimension.

After a promising start to his time at Sheffield Wednesday, the Owls looked to have signed a bargain in Kadeem Harris but his career since leaving suggests that they were right to let him go.

The speedy winger made the move to Hillsborough in 2019 on a free transfer, having left Cardiff City earlier in the summer.

He was a regular for the Owls in the 2019/20 Championship season, making 43 appearances in the second tier, in which he contributed a respectable three goals and four assists.

The following season, which saw the Owls relegated to League One, proved to be far less successful.

In 38 second-tier outings, Harris failed to add to his goal tally for the club, although he did add another four assists in the league.

However, for a winger, those goal contributions were far from good enough, and he was one of a number of players who failed to perform in what was a shocking season for the club.

After a 0-0 draw with Stoke City early in the season, manager Tony Pulis did praise Harris for his performance, saying:

“When you think that was his first game for a few weeks… He, without being disrespectful to anybody else, he looked like our only threat at times.“He’s taken us down the pitch, he’s been a threat, and he was probably the one threat that Michael (O’Neill) will have been worried about during the game.”Unfortunately, while Harris may have threatened on a number of occasions, he rarely delivered, and it was no surprise when he was released by the club following their relegation.What is surprising, however, is where Harris’ career has taken him since his exit from Hillsborough.The 29-year-old spent the first half of last season in Ukraine with Metalist Kharkiv before the war forced him out of the country, with Turkish second-tier side Tuzlaspor his next destination.Despite hitting three goals in just six appearances with them, he would join fellow Turkish second-tier outfit Samsunspor for the new season and has hit one goal in seven appearances so far this campaign.The quality of football on offer in Turkey’s second tier is unlikely to be comparable with that of the Championship or even League One, with Samsunspor averaging just 5,705 fans at their home games so far this season, whereas the Owls have averaged 24,651.This suggests that Harris is playing at a lower standard and given his less-than-impressive time with Sheffield Wednesday, the club were right not to offer him a new deal after relegation.