Darwin Nunez Closing In on Anfield Exit as Al Hilal Push Forward — Liverpool Set for Big Shake-Up
Darwin Nunez’s future at Liverpool has taken a decisive turn, with Saudi giants Al Hilal now reportedly on the verge of securing the striker’s signature.
Since the curtain closed on the 2024/25 season, speculation around the 26-year-old’s next move has been constant. Despite interest from Napoli, AC Milan, Atletico Madrid, and Al Nassr, no club had yet met Liverpool’s valuation — understood to be in the region of €70 million (£61 million).
Now, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, a breakthrough may finally be on the horizon. Romano claims that Liverpool and Al Hilal have reached a verbal agreement, and that discussions are ongoing between the Saudi Pro League club and Nunez over personal terms.
“EXCLUSIVE: Al Hilal are close to getting Darwin Nunez deal done after verbal agreement in place with Liverpool,” Romano posted. “Club to club agreement is done, while Al Hilal are in talks with Darwin over personal terms. Decision up to Nunez but talks underway — Inzaghi wants him.”
The deal is not done yet, but all signs point to a potential exit — and soon. Al Hilal are not expected to have any financial obstacles in matching Liverpool’s price tag, according to talkSPORT. If completed, the move could also open the door for Aleksandar Mitrovic to leave the Saudi side.
Nunez arrived at Liverpool in the summer of 2022 for a then club-record fee of £85 million, but has struggled to fully justify that figure. While his moments of brilliance have excited fans, his inconsistency in front of goal has also drawn criticism. He’s netted 40 goals in 143 appearances across all competitions.
On Monday, he scored in a 4-1 win over Athletic Bilbao — a goal that may well be his final one in a Liverpool shirt, as the Reds also went on to beat the same team 3-2 in the return friendly.
Should Nunez depart, it could pave the way for Liverpool to step up their pursuit of Alexander Isak. The Newcastle United forward has long been admired at Anfield, but the Magpies may resist any move until they secure a replacement.
Newcastle’s top target, Benjamin Sesko, is believed to be leaning towards Manchester United, who reportedly tabled a €75 million plus €10 million add-ons offer for the Slovenian. As a result, Ollie Watkins, Nicolas Jackson, and Yoane Wissa have emerged as possible alternatives.
With the summer window heating up and Liverpool’s forward line potentially shifting, all eyes will be on Nunez’s next step — and whether it marks the end of a turbulent but unforgettable chapter at Anfield.