Newcastle United's interest in Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez has fluctuated throughout 2025, with early reports indicating the club had the opportunity to sign the Uruguayan attacker during the summer transfer window. Initially, Newcastle were linked with Nunez as a potential replacement for Callum Wilson, and as a valuable backup for their lead striker Alexander Isak. The Liverpool forward was reportedly available for around £60 million, with Liverpool manager Arne Slot publicly questioning Nunez’s work rate and consistency after a challenging season in which he scored only six goals. Newcastle might have been tempted to keep Nunez in the Premier League rather than lose him to the Saudi Pro League, but the financial constraints under Profit and Sustainability Rules presented a hurdle.

However, later developments in early 2025 suggested Newcastle reconsidered their approach. Reports emerged stating that despite Liverpool's willingness to offload the 25-year-old striker amid his struggles and inconsistent form, Newcastle opted not to pursue Nunez. Instead, the club targeted other Liverpool players, namely Diogo Jota and Harvey Elliott, both admired by Newcastle manager Eddie Howe and seen as preferable options to bolster the squad. Notably, attempts to negotiate a swap involving Alexander Isak with Liverpool failed, as Newcastle were keen to retain their prolific Swedish striker. Thus, while Nunez’s situation at Liverpool remained uncertain, Newcastle moved away from pursuing him.

Complicating matters, Napoli had long coveted Nunez as their top attacking target. Over nearly 70 days, the Italian side engaged in extended negotiations with Liverpool, at one point offering more than €50 million. Despite no salary issues from the player, Napoli eventually shifted focus to alternate targets, including Lorenzo Lucca and other options, casting doubt on the prospect of sealing a deal. Following this, Nunez faced potential offers from the Saudi Pro League, including a notable approach from Al-Hilal.

In conclusion, while Newcastle were initially connected with Darwin Nunez as a possible summer signing in 2025, their transfer strategy shifted towards other Liverpool players, and the Uruguayan forward’s future moved towards other clubs, including Napoli and Saudi teams. Newcastle's serious pursuit of Jota and Elliott over Nunez reflects strategic recalibration in their squad rebuilding process.

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