Darwin Nunez’s Liverpool Future in Doubt Amid Renewed Saudi Interest
Uncertainty continues to loom over Darwin Nunez’s future at Liverpool, with rapid developments in the transfer market potentially offering clarity in the coming days.
The Uruguayan striker is once again being linked to a move to the Saudi Pro League — this time with added urgency.
Nunez had initially pledged his commitment to new manager Arne Slot ahead of the 2024/25 campaign. However, his form took a significant dip, scoring just seven goals in all competitions — a sharp decline from the 18 he netted the previous season and the 15 he managed in his debut year under Jürgen Klopp.
Despite his struggles, Liverpool turned down a Saudi offer for the forward in January in hopes of keeping their Premier League title ambitions alive. However, his last start came on March 8 against Southampton — coinciding with his last goal — and he played a limited role in the closing stages of the season.
Al-Hilal Reignite Interest in Nunez
According to talkSPORT, Saudi giants Al-Hilal have revived their interest in Nunez and are now seriously considering him as one of two potential marquee signings before the FIFA Club World Cup. Their transfer efforts so far have been met with rejection — Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes and Napoli’s Victor Osimhen are both said to have turned down significant offers.
Osimhen, who scored an impressive 37 goals during a loan spell at Galatasaray in 2024/25, has previously attracted interest from Liverpool as well.
Portuguese outlet A Bola also reports that Sporting CP forward Viktor Gyokeres has rejected a move to Saudi Arabia. The 27-year-old has delivered a remarkable 97 goals in 102 appearances over the last two seasons and is believed to favour a Premier League switch — a scenario that could play into Liverpool’s hands if they decide to part ways with Nunez.
Tight Deadline Could Push Deal Forward
Al-Hilal face a strict Tuesday night deadline to register new players for the Club World Cup, making any potential transfer urgent. That pressure could benefit Liverpool, who may see this as an opportunity to recoup part of the £85 million they spent to sign Nunez from Benfica in 2022.
With reports suggesting Al-Hilal were prepared to offer £100 million for Fernandes and £63 million for other strikers, Liverpool could still command a hefty fee if they choose to sell.
Liverpool’s Focus Elsewhere — For Now
At the moment, Liverpool are not under immediate pressure to make a decision. Their attention remains on high-profile targets like Florian Wirtz and Milos Kerkez. However, with the transfer window now open as of June 16, adding a new striker could soon rise on the agenda — especially if Nunez’s situation reaches a turning point.
