Darwin Núñez is now open to a move to the Saudi Pro League after his preferred transfer to Napoli collapsed due to Liverpool's £65 million asking price. Liverpool have decided to part ways with Núñez after just over three years, with manager Arne Slot seeking different attacking options. Núñez had been strongly linked with Napoli, but the Serie A club ended their pursuit, as they found Liverpool’s valuation too steep and instead signed Lorenzo Lucca for a significantly lower fee.

The Saudi Pro League, with clubs such as Al-Hilal, has been circling Núñez for some time and is now stepping up their interest. Al-Hilal reportedly are willing to meet Liverpool’s price and offer Núñez a lucrative salary in the region of €20-25 million per year, making them a serious contender for the striker’s signature. With Napoli no longer an option, and European clubs unable or unwilling to match Liverpool’s valuation, the Middle East represents a viable destination for Núñez.

Liverpool is also pursuing other offensive reinforcements, notably close to signing Hugo Ekitike, which would further push Núñez down the pecking order. His recent form and lack of trust from the manager have made his exit more likely. Liverpool’s plan is to finalize a deal sooner rather than later this summer to recoup the transfer fee.

There is also ongoing Saudi interest in Núñez’s Liverpool teammate Luis Díaz. While Núñez would prefer to remain in Europe, the prospect of a sizeable wage and a fresh challenge in the Saudi Pro League could be decisive.

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In summary, the situation has evolved rapidly: from a preferred move to Serie A to a probable transfer to Saudi Arabia, reflecting shifts in market dynamics and Liverpool’s strategic priorities.


PP