Darwin Núñez's Liverpool Exit: Transfer Saga Updates and Prospects
Darwin Núñez's future at Liverpool is increasingly uncertain after the collapse of his proposed transfer to Napoli, the Serie A champions. Despite Liverpool's openness to selling Núñez to reinvest in a new striker, Napoli pulled out of the deal due to the high valuation Liverpool set at around £59 million (€70 million). The Italian club eventually opted for Lorenzo Lucca at a substantially lower price, around €35 million plus add-ons, leaving Núñez's exit in limbo this summer.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed that Núñez was "very open" to the move to Napoli and enthusiastic about joining Serie A and competing in the Champions League. However, Napoli deemed Liverpool's asking price too steep, causing negotiations to collapse. Meanwhile, Liverpool are actively pursuing other strikers, with Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres lined up as a possible replacement and Hugo Ekitike reportedly very close to joining, which further diminishes Núñez's standing in the squad.
Under Liverpool manager Arne Slot, Núñez struggled to secure a regular starting place during Liverpool's 2024/25 Premier League-winning campaign. He started only eight league matches and scored seven goals in all competitions. Reports suggest Slot's lack of full trust in Núñez, evidenced by missing a milestone appearance tied to bonus payments, has contributed to his precarious position.
With Napoli no longer pursuing Núñez, alternative destinations have emerged. The Saudi Pro League has re-emerged as a "serious option," with clubs like Al Hilal showing interest following their unsuccessful negotiations for Victor Osimhen. Recently, Núñez has also shown willingness to consider offers from Saudi Arabia, marking a shift in his transfer stance. Additionally, Newcastle United has entered the race, adding another layer of complexity to the striker’s next move.
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