Arne Slot Drops Bombshell: Darwin Nunez Could Leave as Alexander Isak Transfer Heats Up

Liverpool boss Arne Slot has acknowledged that Darwin Núñez might depart the club within days but declined to discuss whether Newcastle United forward Alexander Isak could serve as his replacement.

After already transferring Luis Díaz to Bayern Munich, Núñez is close to following suit with an agreement in place to join Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal in a deal potentially worth up to €65 million (£56.4 million, $75.8 million) including bonuses.

These exits would significantly help finance a renewed pursuit of Isak, who is currently training separately after indicating his wish to leave Newcastle this summer. The Reds previously saw a £110 million ($147.8 million) offer rejected but are anticipated to submit an improved proposal once Núñez's transfer funds become available.

When questioned about Liverpool enhancing their offer, Slot stated during a press conference that he preferred discussing the attacking players currently at Anfield, while admitting Núñez's departure from the club appears imminent.

"As you're aware, myself and I believe every coach operates this way - you don't discuss players who aren't part of your squad," Slot clarified. "I can speak about Hugo [Ekitiké], whom we've acquired and has performed excellently so far.

"We're delighted with our current squad and have every justification to feel positive since we secured the league title last season. Yes, players have departed but we've also made additions and our youth players are progressing well.

"Currently, Darwin may indeed depart, but nothing has been finalized so we must wait several days until everything is completed, though there's certainly a possibility he will leave."

Slot continued by emphasizing his contentment with Liverpool's existing offensive options, stating he would remain satisfied even if the Isak transfer doesn't materialize.

"We believe we possess considerable attacking strength within our team," he declared. "I'm thinking of Cody Gakpo, Federico Chiesa, Hugo Ekitiké, Mo Salah, Jeremie Frimpong who can operate as a right winger, Florian Wirtz who can function as a left winger...

"I already sense I have numerous attacking alternatives in my squad, but naturally as a club we're always monitoring market opportunities, though that could also apply to midfield and defensive positions."