Al-Hilal, a Saudi Arabian club, made a stunning move in the international football market: Serbian striker Aleksandar Mitrović will be released with a $30 million (25 million euros) payout for the final year of his contract. Announced on August 12, 2025, the decision follows the signing of Uruguayan Darwin Núñez for $63.8 million, who takes over as the main center-forward. The move, led by coach Simone Inzaghi, aligns with the club’s strategy to revamp the squad and stay competitive in Asian and global tournaments. Leeds United, recently promoted to the Premier League, is the likely destination for Mitrović. Backed by a club patron, the decision shakes the transfer market and sparks debate about Saudi football’s massive investments.
The squad overhaul comes as Al-Hilal cements its status as an Asian football powerhouse. After winning four trophies with Mitrović over two seasons, the club now bets on Núñez to lead the attack. The financial weight of the payout also draws attention, with Al-Hilal opting to cover the full $30 million remaining from Mitrović’s 2023 contract, originally worth 75 million euros over three years.
- Heavy investments: Al-Hilal continues its strategy of blockbuster signings.
- Tactical shift: Núñez’s arrival signals a change in playing style.
- Hot market: Mitrović’s release opens doors for European transfers.
New era for Al-Hilal’s attack
Darwin Núñez’s signing, confirmed on August 10, 2025, ushers in a new chapter for Al-Hilal. The ex-Liverpool striker was acquired for 53 million euros ($63.8 million) on a three-year deal. His arrival is part of an ambitious plan to dominate the Saudi League and the AFC Champions League.
Núñez, 26, brings a dynamic edge with greater mobility than Mitrović. Coach Simone Inzaghi, recently appointed, favors a more fluid style, influencing the decision to release the Serbian.
The club’s financial planning also stands out. A key patron will cover Mitrović’s payout, ensuring Al-Hilal’s ability to invest in new talent remains intact.
Who is the winner in our game ⁉️🎥
— AlHilal Saudi Club (@Alhilal_EN) August 11, 2025
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Mitrović’s journey at Al-Hilal
Aleksandar Mitrović joined Al-Hilal in August 2023 from Fulham in a high-profile transfer. Over two seasons, he became one of Asia’s top scorers, netting 68 goals and providing 15 assists in 79 matches. His efforts helped secure one league title, one cup, and two Saudi Super Cups.
- 2023/24: 35 goals in 40 matches, spearheading the Saudi League title run.
- 2024/25: 33 goals in 39 games, though injuries sidelined him in the Club World Cup.
- Legacy: Mitrović shone in key moments, like cup finals.
Despite his record, injuries and the club’s new tactical direction reduced his role. Inzaghi’s preference for Núñez reflects a push for versatility in global competitions.
Leeds United as a likely destination
Leeds United, back in the Premier League for 2024/25, is the frontrunner to sign Mitrović. The English club, familiar with the player from his Fulham days, sees him as a proven goal-scorer to bolster their attack.
At 30, Mitrović remains a top-tier striker, known for his physicality and aerial prowess. His Premier League record—111 goals in 206 games with Fulham—makes Leeds a fitting move.
Sources close to the player suggest he’s open to returning to England, particularly to a club aiming to solidify its top-flight status. Italian and German clubs are also monitoring, but Leeds holds the edge.
Al-Hilal’s financial strategy
Paying $30 million to release Mitrović underscores Al-Hilal’s financial muscle. Backed by private investors and Saudi government support, the club has pursued an aggressive transfer strategy, with signings like Neymar in 2023 and now Núñez.
A club patron will fund the payout, a common practice in Saudi football, allowing Al-Hilal to maintain a competitive budget. This approach supports bold moves without financial strain.
- Ongoing investment: Over $190 million spent on transfers since 2023.
- Planning: Mitrović’s exit frees up salary space for new signings.
- Competitiveness: Al-Hilal aims to stay among Asia’s elite clubs.
- Global reach: Núñez’s signing boosts the club’s worldwide visibility.
Transfer market ripples
Mitrović’s release shakes up the European market. Clubs like Leeds see a chance to sign a proven striker without a transfer fee, only covering wages and bonuses.
The move also highlights Al-Hilal’s growing influence. The club’s ability to attract stars like Núñez and make swift roster changes cements its role in global football.
The decision fuels debate about Saudi football’s business model, blending huge investments with rapid squad adjustments to stay competitive.
Darwin Núñez’s future at Al-Hilal
Núñez’s arrival is a milestone for Al-Hilal. The Uruguayan, who faced scrutiny for inconsistency at Liverpool, now leads an ambitious project in a rising market. His adaptation to Asian football will be closely watched, especially in the AFC Champions League.
Núñez showed promise in clutch moments, like the 2024 Copa América with Uruguay. At Al-Hilal, he’s tasked with matching Mitrović’s output and elevating the attack.
- Profile: Núñez blends speed, strength, and finishing, suiting Inzaghi’s system.
- Expectations: He’s projected to score over 20 goals in 2025/26.
- Competitiveness: His presence strengthens Al-Hilal in continental play.
Reactions in Saudi football
Al-Hilal’s decision to release Mitrović and sign Núñez has sparked mixed reactions. Fans and analysts praise the club’s ambition, but some question the hefty payout. The passionate fanbase expects Núñez to match Mitrović’s impact.
The club’s Club World Cup semifinal run in 2025, halted by Fluminense, underscored the need for a versatile squad, justifying Núñez’s signing.
Al-Hilal’s moves reflect Saudi football’s rise, as the club draws global attention and sets transfer market trends.
