Liverpool have reached a verbal agreement with Saudi Pro League giants Al Hilal for the transfer of striker Darwin Nunez in a deal worth up to £56.6 million (€65m). The fixed portion of the fee is understood to be £46.2 million (€53m), with performance-related add-ons making up the rest of the package.
Nunez, who joined Liverpool from Benfica in 2022 for an initial £64 million, has agreed in principle to join the Saudi side. While final paperwork is yet to be completed and official confirmation from both clubs is pending, Liverpool have granted the 26-year-old permission to negotiate with Al Hilal, potentially joining their pre-season training camp in Germany in the coming days.
The move marks a significant chapter in Nunez’s career and underlines Al Hilal’s continued intent to attract top-level talent in their prime from Europe’s elite leagues. The Uruguayan becomes the latest big-name player to be lured to the Saudi Pro League as the nation builds momentum ahead of the 2034 World Cup.
A Mixed Legacy at Anfield
Since his high-profile move from Benfica in 2022, Nunez’s time at Anfield has been turbulent. Despite flashes of brilliance and moments of match-winning instinct, consistency was often lacking. Across 143 appearances, the forward netted 40 goals, averaging a goal every 3.5 games—respectable but perhaps not enough for a marquee signing.
In Liverpool’s title-winning 2024–25 season, Nunez featured heavily early on but was increasingly relegated to the bench under new manager Arne Slot, starting only eight Premier League matches. Even so, he managed to register seven goals, including crucial late strikes in a 2-0 victory over Brentford in January.
His best season came during Jurgen Klopp’s final campaign, where he scored 18 goals in all competitions. However, despite his energy, work rate, and unrelenting drive, Nunez never truly cemented himself as the club’s go-to striker.
Saudi Pull, European Interest, and a Calculated Exit
Al Hilal’s pursuit of Nunez intensified after identifying him as a top transfer target earlier this summer. The Saudi club, bolstered by financial strength and growing global appeal, outpaced potential suitors like AC Milan, who expressed interest but couldn’t compete on financial terms.
Liverpool had previously rejected a £60 million bid from Al Nassr for Nunez in January, determined to keep him during their pursuit of domestic and European silverware. However, with the club now preparing for the future under Slot and with fresh attacking options arriving, the Reds opted to cash in this time around—even at a reported loss of nearly £20 million.
From Nunez’s perspective, the deal makes sense. He remains an integral figure in Uruguay’s national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup and a move to a less physically demanding league could keep him in peak condition for international duties.
Liverpool’s Next Move: Ekitike In, Isak Out (for Now)
Liverpool have already been proactive in reshaping their attack. This summer, they signed Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt, a versatile forward capable of playing across the front line. The Reds also secured Bundesliga duo Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth to reinforce their left side.
The club also made headlines with a £110 million bid for Newcastle striker Alexander Isak, which was promptly rejected. Newcastle reportedly value the Swedish international at £150 million, raising questions about whether Liverpool will return with an improved offer.
Club legend Jamie Carragher weighed in, expressing doubts about spending such a vast sum on a player who may not be guaranteed a starting spot. He also noted that signing another striker when Ekitike is already on board may be unnecessary unless Isak is seen as the clear, long-term successor to Nunez.
Analysis: Will Liverpool Miss Darwin Nunez?
Opinions remain divided among fans and pundits about Nunez’s departure. While some feel the Uruguayan never truly delivered on his massive price tag, others admire his unrelenting spirit, explosive pace, and determination.
“He’s Uruguay’s cutting edge,” noted South American football expert Tim Vickery, adding, “His record for Uruguay is very good indeed. He’s an optimist of the goal—always trying, always putting himself about, running into channels.”
For Liverpool, the decision is strategic. Nunez may not have lived up to his full potential in England, but he showed enough promise to make his absence felt. His move to Saudi Arabia closes a brief, erratic chapter at Anfield and opens the door for the next evolution of the Reds’ attacking line under Arne Slot.
Whether the club replaces him with another marquee striker or puts full trust in their new signings remains to be seen—but one thing is clear: Darwin Nunez’s journey through Merseyside football has come to an end, leaving behind both missed chances and unforgettable moments.
