Tottenham & Newcastle eye Nunez - Sunday's gossip

Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United are among several clubs monitoring Darwin Nunez's situation at Al-Hilal, with intermediaries holding talks ahead of a potential summer return to Europe.[1][2][3]

The 26-year-old Uruguayan striker joined Al-Hilal from Liverpool last summer in a £46 million deal, signing a contract until 2028 and earning around £400,000 per week. However, his stint has soured quickly. After scoring 6 goals and providing 4 assists in 16 Saudi Pro League appearances, Nunez was dropped from the league squad in February due to foreign player limits—Saudi clubs can register only eight foreigners born before 2003—following Karim Benzema's arrival. He was removed alongside Pablo Mari, in a "difficult" decision by manager Simone Inzaghi.[2][3][5]

Blindsided by the move and unhappy in Saudi Arabia, Nunez is open to leaving after just one year, even at a significant wage cut to facilitate a return to Europe. TEAMtalk reports that Premier League clubs like Tottenham and Newcastle have been alerted and held discussions with his representatives. Newcastle is reportedly leading the interest among English suitors.[1][3][4][6][7]

European interest is also strong: Atletico Madrid and Juventus are long-term admirers, ready to pursue if finances align. Barcelona has been linked too, though wages remain a hurdle. Al-Hilal was previously open to a loan to Fenerbahce without fee in February 2026, per reports. Nunez's Transfermarkt value stands at €35 million.[3][5]

This gossip column highlights the striker's dramatic turnaround, positioning him as a high-profile target for clubs seeking attacking reinforcements. His personal sacrifice underscores determination to escape the Middle East.[1][2]

(Word count: 298)