Al-Hilal, a powerhouse in the Saudi Pro League, has ramped up efforts to sign Uruguayan striker Darwin Núñez from Liverpool with a $62 million offer (53 million euros at current exchange rates). The deal between the clubs has been finalized, as reported by transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano, with the final decision now resting with the player. The move is taking place in Riyadh, as the Saudi club aims to bolster its squad for the 2025/26 season under coach Simone Inzaghi. The offer includes additional fees, and talks with Núñez are ongoing as he weighs leaving European football. If completed, the transfer could mark a milestone for the Saudi market, which continues to attract global football stars.
Al-Hilal’s pursuit reflects their ambition to dominate locally and internationally, especially with the Club World Cup approaching. Núñez, 26, joined Liverpool from Benfica in 2022 for 100 million euros but has struggled to secure a regular starting spot. Last season, he scored seven goals in 47 matches, starting just eight times in the Premier League title-winning campaign.
- Al-Hilal’s key targets: After failed attempts for Victor Osimhen, Alexander Isak, and Benjamin Sesko, Núñez became the priority.
- European interest: Milan, Napoli, and Juventus also monitored the Uruguayan but didn’t submit firm offers.
- Liverpool’s plans: Núñez’s potential exit could fund a move for Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, a Reds target.
Al-Hilal’s growing interest
Al-Hilal is determined to strengthen its attack for the 2025/26 season, with Darwin Núñez as the top choice of coach Simone Inzaghi. The Italian manager, who took over after a successful stint at Inter Milan, sees the Uruguayan as the ideal fit to lead the offensive line. The $62 million offer, with potential add-ons, underscores the club’s financial power as they aim to compete with rivals like Al-Nassr, recently bolstered by Joao Felix.
The interest in Núñez isn’t new. In January, Al-Nassr offered 70 million euros for the striker, but Liverpool rejected the bid, unwilling to negotiate mid-season. Now, with Hugo Ekitike’s arrival and interest in Alexander Isak, the Reds are more open to letting Núñez go. His pre-season performance, with five goals, including one against Athletic Club, hasn’t swayed Liverpool’s stance on a potential sale.
Núñez’s journey at Liverpool
Signed for 100 million euros in 2022, Darwin Núñez arrived at Liverpool with high expectations after shining at Benfica. His movement and ability to create space earned praise, but struggles to convert chances drew criticism. Over three seasons, he scored 40 goals and provided 22 assists in 7,459 minutes for the Reds. Despite fan support for his effort, Núñez fell short of technical expectations, particularly under current manager Arne Slot.
The 2024/25 season was especially tough for the Uruguayan. With just seven goals in 47 games, he lost his place in the starting lineup, often overtaken by Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo. The departure of Luis Díaz to Bayern Munich and the likely transfer of Federico Chiesa signal a reshaping of Liverpool’s attack, potentially easing Núñez’s exit.
- Núñez’s stats: 40 goals and 22 assists in three seasons with Liverpool.
- 2024/25 season: Seven goals in 47 games, starting only eight Premier League matches.
- Market value: Núñez’s current market value is estimated at 45 million euros.
- Saudi interest: Al-Hilal contacted Liverpool in June to discuss the transfer.
Al-Hilal’s market strategy
Al-Hilal has taken an aggressive approach to the transfer market, targeting high-profile players to bolster its squad. After missing out on Osimhen, Isak, and Sesko, the club turned to Núñez, seen as a feasible option both tactically and financially. The $62 million offer aligns with Liverpool’s valuation, aiming to recoup a significant portion of their 2022 investment.
The club’s strategy includes persuading Núñez before finalizing financial details with Liverpool. Since April, Al-Hilal intermediaries have been in touch with Núñez’s team, outlining the sporting project and financial benefits of joining the Saudi Pro League. The chance to play in the Club World Cup, set for June 1-10, 2026, is a key selling point for the Uruguayan.
Possible destinations and player’s decision
Though Núñez initially preferred to stay in Europe, with interest from Milan, Napoli, and Juventus, Al-Hilal’s offer has gained traction in recent weeks. Sources close to the player suggest he’s open to the move but is still reviewing contract details, including salary and duration. Al-Hilal’s initial offer includes a weekly salary of about £558,000, far exceeding his current Liverpool wages.
Núñez’s decision is highly anticipated, especially as Liverpool has signaled it won’t block his exit if he chooses to accept. His potential transfer could pave the way for Liverpool to pursue Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, with funds from the sale easing the deal.
- Decision factors: High salary, sporting project, and Club World Cup participation.
- European competition: Milan and Juventus are monitoring but can’t match the financial offer.
- Liverpool’s strategy: Núñez’s sale could enable the signing of Isak.
- Timeline: Negotiations are expected to conclude before the 2025/26 season starts.
Saudi football landscape
The Saudi Pro League has emerged as an attractive destination for players seeking new challenges and lucrative contracts. Al-Hilal, the current Saudi Super Cup champion, aims to maintain its dominance and rival clubs like Al-Nassr, which recently signed Joao Felix. Núñez’s arrival would be a strategic move to boost the team’s competitiveness domestically and globally.
The club is also banking on the Club World Cup’s visibility to attract top talent. The tournament, featuring elite global teams, is seen as a platform for the Saudi league’s ambitions. Simone Inzaghi’s presence, as a high-profile coach, further underscores Al-Hilal’s goal to become a global football powerhouse.
- Saudi investments: Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr lead high-profile signings in the league.
- Club World Cup: The event is scheduled for June 1-10, 2026.
- Simone Inzaghi: The Italian coach is central to Al-Hilal’s project.