Darwin Núñez, who found the net in Liverpool’s 3-1 pre-season win over Preston North End on July 13, is reportedly growing dissatisfied with his limited involvement. Despite Liverpool’s Premier League title win last season, the Uruguayan striker started only eight league games—a situation that has sparked ongoing transfer discussions with Napoli and created unease within the squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Sources suggest tensions flared at the AXA Training Centre during a heated exchange between Núñez and manager Arne Slot. Núñez voiced frustration over being regularly overlooked in favor of Cody Gakpo and the late Diogo Jota, even when fully fit. Slot, noted for his strict tactical standards, is said to have criticized Núñez’s inconsistency and work rate—a sentiment he also expressed back in February, stating, “I can’t accept if a player doesn’t give everything,” following subpar showings against Wolves and Aston Villa.
Despite scoring recently and dedicating his goal to Jota, Núñez feels increasingly marginalized. Napoli, eyeing him as a replacement for Victor Osimhen (set to join Galatasaray), have made a bid of €55 million (£47.5 million) plus add-ons. Liverpool turned it down, holding out for a valuation closer to €60–70 million (£51–60 million).
Negotiations have hit a standstill, especially as Napoli edge closer to signing Udinese’s Lorenzo Lucca for €34 million—a more affordable alternative. Still, Núñez has reportedly given his approval to the Italian champions, prioritizing a European move over interest from Saudi clubs like Al-Hilal. On July 14, Fabrizio Romano noted that while Núñez is waiting on Napoli, he “can’t wait forever,” underscoring the urgency.
This uncertainty comes at a difficult time for Liverpool, still mourning the death of Diogo Jota. The Preston match was emotionally charged, featuring a holographic tribute to the late forward. The situation has split fans—some support Slot’s stance, citing his lack of faith in Núñez and preference for other players, including using Luis Diaz out of position. Others argue Núñez should be kept, especially given the team’s lack of depth in attack.
Complicating matters further, Liverpool’s pursuit of replacements such as Alexander Isak or Hugo Ekitike remains unresolved. With key pre-season matches in Asia and the Community Shield against Crystal Palace on August 10 looming, Núñez’s fallout with Slot risks further destabilizing a squad already navigating emotional and tactical challenges.
