Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal is making a serious bid to sign Liverpool striker Darwin Núñez this summer, as Premier League champions value the Uruguayan at around €70m (£60.7m). The Saudis have reportedly presented their project and plan to Núñez and are prepared to offer an astronomical salary in the region of €20m-€25m (£17.3m-£21.7m) per year to lure him away from Europe. Although Núñez would prefer to stay in Europe, Al-Hilal’s financial muscle and ambitious project may sway his decision amid his uncertain standing at Liverpool under new manager Arne Slot.
Interest in Núñez from Europe’s top leagues has cooled, with Napoli notably pulling out of negotiations due to Liverpool's high asking price. The Saudi club, runners-up in their domestic league, have wasted no time aiming to capitalize on this by engaging directly with the player and Liverpool, indicating their intent to meet the transfer fee demanded by the Reds. Talks are expected to continue involving all parties to finalize the financial details and deal structure.
The 26-year-old striker originally joined Liverpool from Benfica in 2022 for an initial fee of £64m plus add-ons. Despite his relatively young age and potential, Núñez appears to have fallen out of favor at Anfield under the new management, which strategically aligns with Al-Hilal’s targeting of younger stars yet to peak. This move reflects a broader shift in the Saudi Pro League's recruitment strategy, moving beyond older veteran signings to focus on players in their prime who can make an immediate impact.
While Liverpool are reportedly open to discussions over a permanent transfer, the high valuation remains the primary sticking point. Compared to European clubs facing financial constraints, Al-Hilal’s ability to meet Liverpool’s demands and offer lucrative personal terms sets them apart as one of the few realistically capable suitors for Núñez this summer.
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