Liverpool say Darwin Nunez is not enough as the Reds ‘need two new midfielders’ to challenge Erling Haaland-inspired Man City for the Premier League title

Darwin Nunez alone won’t be enough for Liverpool to challenge Manchester City for the Premier League title, according to Gabby Agbonlahor.

The Aston Villa legend believes the Reds’ pursuit of Benfica star Nunez is a direct response to City signing Erling Haaland – but suggests Jurgen Klopp also needs two midfielders to keep pace by Pep Guardiola.

Liverpool are set to lose Sadio Mane to Bayern Munich this summer, despite rejecting two offers with the second worth around £30m.

The Reds are believed to be lining up Nunez, the 22-year-old Uruguayan winger, as a possible replacement, with Benfica set to demand £85million for their goal machine, which favors a move to Anfield over Manchester United.

However, Agbonlahor suggests other holes already exist in Klopp’s squad, especially in an aging midfield.

“Nunez is a top player,” said the ex-Premier League star. “He will improve and get even better. But Liverpool need midfielders.

“Thiago has injury problems, Jordan Henderson’s legs are going to start now that he’s in his thirties.

“They need two midfielders. Jude Bellingham would suit them perfectly.

“In defense and in goal, they have enough cover. Two central midfielders and Nunez then they will be back to challenge Man City for the title next season.

“You look at the City midfielder, I think Liverpool need at least one midfielder.”

Liverpool finished a point behind City last season after a thrilling title race – and the champions have already improved by adding one of Europe’s most exciting young players to their ranks.

Haaland could take Guardiola’s side to the next level – and Agbonlahor suggests Liverpool’s pursuit of Nunez is a direct response.

He added: “They’re going for Nunez because City have Haaland. He’s going to be unstoppable and they’re going to be unstoppable next season.

“Liverpool had to make a big statement. Yes, Mane is leaving. But Diaz, Jota and Salah… for me it’s not enough if you want to compete with City.