Downloads folder - The operation can't be completed because the item can't be found

Hello there, i seem to have deleted my download folder and can't seem to find it again.

When i go on finder > go > downloads i get an error - The operation can't be completed because the item can't be found.

I have tried looking for it in finder to drag it back to the desktop but it's doesn't exist.

Tried reinstalling the OS and still nothing.

when i go on to finder > preferences, i see a (-) in front of my download folder while the rest are ticked, when i try to do the same for the folder, it checks but then once you open it again it goes back to (-)

Also, i don't have a back up

would really appreciate some help.

Thanks