Darwin Nunez Eyes Four New Clubs as Dream Transfer Falls Through
Throughout most of Arne Slot's relatively short tenure at Liverpool, Darwin Núñez's departure from Anfield has appeared virtually certain.
The 26-year-old forward failed to establish himself quickly after Slot's appointment and was relegated to a substitute role during Liverpool's championship-winning 2024–25 season. He managed only eight Premier League starts and scored merely seven goals across all competitions.
With the Reds investing heavily this summer, generating revenue has become crucial. Núñez represents a valuable asset for sale, and Liverpool seemed prepared to transfer the Uruguayan to Serie A titleholders Napoli, who were leading contenders to secure his signature.
Nevertheless, the Italian club has since abandoned the pursuit due to the substantial transfer fee demanded for Núñez, with Liverpool allegedly rejecting a bid approaching £50 million. Although his potential move to Naples has fallen through, the striker remains likely to leave this summer.
Here are four possible destinations for Núñez.
Al Hilal
The most probable destination for Núñez now seems to be the Saudi Pro League. He has been linked with a Middle Eastern transfer throughout the summer, and it's understood that recent FIFA Club World Cup competitors Al Hilal will pursue the South American after failed talks with Victor Osimhen.
Al Hilal certainly won't have difficulty raising the required funds to acquire Núñez—clearly exceeding £50 million—and their £65 million offer for Osimhen gives Liverpool significant negotiating leverage. The Saudi club has previously invested heavily in star players, including Neymar, Malcom and Rúben Neves.
With Núñez potentially facing limited European options capable of meeting his valuation, the Al Hilal transfer could become increasingly attractive. He would earn substantial wages in Asia while regaining the chance for consistent playing time.
AC Milan
While Napoli has stepped back from pursuing Núñez, AC Milan might fill that void. Recent reports suggest the Rossoneri, now under Max Allegri's guidance, have submitted a €60 million (£52 million) proposal for the Uruguay striker, though it's unclear if this would persuade Liverpool to authorize his exit.
Milan face attacking shortages entering the new season after Tammy Abraham and João Félix's loan deals ended and Luka Jović left as a free agent. This leaves Santiago Giménez as their sole senior striker before the upcoming campaign, making a No.9 signing essential before kickoff.
Núñez would represent an intriguing acquisition for the Italians and could rotate effectively with Giménez. The attacker has demonstrated flashes of brilliance at Liverpool and might flourish with fresh surroundings as he seeks to recapture his earlier career momentum.
Atlético Madrid
Núñez seems perfectly suited for Atlético Madrid considering his counter-attacking prowess, physical presence and passionate temperament, with Diego Simeone potentially capable of maximizing the underperforming Liverpool striker's abilities. However, their actual need for him remains questionable.
Atléti briefly showed interest in Núñez near the conclusion of the 2024–25 campaign but currently possess two outstanding center-forward choices in Julián Alvarez and Alexander Sørloth. The adaptable Antoine Griezmann can also operate in Simeone's forward partnership.
Nevertheless, Alvarez has been connected with a summer departure to Barcelona, and should that situation progress, Atléti would urgently require a substitute. Núñez might provide the answer.
Galatasaray
Osimhen and Núñez may become closely connected during this summer's transfer carousel. The Nigerian striker was not only targeted by Al Hilal but is also desired by Turkish giants Galatasaray following his impressive loan stint with them last season.
Napoli's transfer requirements could create obstacles in permanent transfer discussions for Osimhen this summer, with Galatasaray possibly needing to explore alternatives if they cannot arrange payment of his €75 million (£65 million) fee.
Núñez could serve as a practical substitute for the Turkish club and might represent a more economical option as well. While still considerably expensive, Liverpool is unlikely to demand £65 million for their struggling No.9.