Liverpool Strikes Deal to Sell Darwin Nunez as Transfer Faces Anticipated Setback
Liverpool and Al Hilal have allegedly reached a "verbal understanding" concerning Darwin Núñez's transfer, though the Uruguayan striker's profitable departure might not be completed before his current team's upcoming fixture.
Núñez has been lingering near Anfield's departure lounge throughout the summer. The unpredictable forward never secured a consistent role under Arne Slot after struggling to justify his substantial transfer fee, which could escalate to £85 million ($113 million), across two campaigns with Jürgen Klopp.
Multiple European clubs have been linked with the player. After initial interest from Atlético Madrid, Serie A appeared to be Núñez's most probable destination, with AC Milan becoming genuine suitors recently. However, Saudi Arabian wealth has cast a shadow over the 26-year-old since Liverpool allegedly rejected Al Nassr's January window overtures.
Al Hilal have pushed themselves to the forefront this time, labeling Núñez as their "primary objective" to compensate for the star power lost when Neymar Jr. departed six months prior. Discussions have continued throughout pre-season and the clubs have now agreed on general transfer conditions, according to Fabrizio Romano. No transfer amount was disclosed.
Núñez has not yet finalized personal agreements with the Saudi powerhouse, who have been encouraged to acquire the Uruguayan by manager Simone Inzaghi.
Despite these advanced discussions, Sky Sports News reports that Núñez is anticipated to feature in Sunday's Community Shield clash against Crystal Palace in some role. The prolific striker has maintained impressive focus throughout summer, netting five times in four exhibition matches.
It's unclear how much of Núñez's substantial fee—a club record when signed—Liverpool can recover. Any proceeds from this transaction will probably fund the continued chase of Alexander Isak, with the Premier League titleholders expected to lodge a second official offer once Newcastle United secures an adequate replacement.
The fact that Al Hilal are indirectly financing Isak's potential Newcastle departure would create considerable friction on Tyneside. Both organizations—along with Al Nassr, Al Ahli and Al Ittihad—share identical majority ownership: Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF).
Newcastle's expenditure is governed by the club's total income rather than their owners' financial resources due to the Premier League's rigorous fiscal rules, which has constrained the club during a challenging transfer period with more failures than successes. At a moment when suggestions emerge that PIF favors their Saudi operations over Newcastle, it would be poorly received if the owners appear to be assisting Liverpool's Isak acquisition.