In a dramatic turn of events that could reshape both European and Middle Eastern football, Darwin Nunez appears destined for a sensational move to Saudi Arabian giants Al Hilal. The Liverpool striker has reportedly agreed personal terms with the ambitious Saudi Pro League club, marking what could be the end of his underwhelming three-year spell at Anfield. With both clubs reaching a verbal agreement worth up to €65 million, this blockbuster transfer represents one of the summer’s most significant moves.
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Al Hilal’s Masterstroke: Securing Darwin Nunez from Liverpool
Al Hilal have reached a verbal agreement with Liverpool for Darwin Nunez in a deal worth €53 million plus add-ons that could rise to €65 million. This represents a strategic coup for the Saudi champions, who have been relentlessly pursuing marquee signings under their newly appointed coach Simone Inzaghi.
The breakthrough came after intensive negotiations between the clubs, with Darwin Nunez giving the green light to a potential transfer to Al-Hilal and being open to making the move. The Uruguayan international has been impressed by Al Hilal’s ambitious project, particularly following Simone Inzaghi’s appointment as head coach on a two-year deal worth $50 million, making him the world’s highest-paid manager.
Transfer Fee Breakdown
| Component | Amount (€) | Amount (£) |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed Fee | €53 million | £46.2 million |
| Maximum Add-ons | €12 million | £10.4 million |
| Total Potential | €65 million | £56.6 million |
| Liverpool’s Original Investment | €75 million + €25m add-ons | £64 million + £21m add-ons |
Liverpool’s Strategic Decision
Liverpool’s willingness to part with Darwin Nunez reflects a broader squad restructuring under manager Arne Slot. Despite scoring 18 goals in Jurgen Klopp’s final season, Nunez managed only seven goals last term under Arne Slot in 47 appearances. The arrival of Hugo Ekitike for €79 million has signaled Liverpool’s intent to move in a different direction.
Liverpool are hoping to recover close to what they paid Benfica to sign Nunez in 2022 – €75 million guaranteed, plus €25 million in potential add-ons. While the Al Hilal deal represents a significant loss on their initial investment, it provides crucial funds for Liverpool’s pursuit of Newcastle’s Alexander Isak.
Darwin Nunez Career Statistics at Liverpool
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Premier League Starts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-23 | 42 | 15 | 3 | 29 |
| 2023-24 | 54 | 18 | 13 | 32 |
| 2024-25 | 47 | 7 | 8 | 8 |
| Total | 143 | 40 | 24 | 69 |
Simone Inzaghi’s Vision for Darwin Nunez
The Italian tactician has emerged as the driving force behind Al Hilal’s pursuit of Darwin Nunez. Nunez has recently been involved in discussions with Al-Hilal head coach Inzaghi, who sees the striker as pivotal to his tactical setup.
Inzaghi is known for deploying a 3–5–2 formation with wing-backs that like to get forward and join in the attacking play, with two central strikers supported by an attacking midfielder. This system could perfectly suit Darwin Nunez’s dynamic playing style and physical attributes.
Financial Powerhouse: Al Hilal’s Saudi Vision
The move represents another statement signing for Saudi Arabian football, following high-profile acquisitions across the league. Al-Hilal are part of a wider ambitious push to strengthen their squad under new head coach Simone Inzaghi, who sees the Uruguay international as a pivotal player in his tactical plans.
With Al Hilal wanting to respond to rival club Al-Nassr’s signing of Joao Felix with another big name, the Darwin Nunez acquisition fits perfectly into their competitive strategy within Saudi football.
Al Hilal’s Recent Major Signings
| Player | Previous Club | Fee | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Neymar | PSG | €90 million | 2023 |
| Kalidou Koulibaly | Chelsea | €23 million | 2023 |
| Sergej Milinkovic-Savic | Lazio | €40 million | 2023 |
| Darwin Nunez | Liverpool | €65 million | 2025 |
Darwin Nunez’s Liverpool Legacy
The Uruguayan striker’s time at Anfield has been characterized by moments of brilliance interspersed with frustrating inconsistency. Should Nunez leave Anfield, he will do so having scored 40 goals in 143 appearances for the club since his 2022 move from Benfica.
His most memorable contributions include crucial late goals, such as two vital stoppage-time goals that gave Liverpool a 2-0 win at Brentford in January. However, his struggle for consistent starting positions under Slot highlighted his peripheral role in Liverpool’s future plans.
European Interest and Saudi Competition
Before Al Hilal’s successful intervention, Darwin Nunez had attracted interest from several European clubs. AC Milan were interested and made an approach, while Napoli and Juventus also showed genuine interest in the former Benfica striker. However, none could match Al Hilal’s financial package.
While the financial terms are significant, the opportunity to be a marquee player and partner with a coach who values him highly likely weighs heavily in the decision.
World Cup Implications
The timing of this potential move carries significant implications for Darwin Nunez’s international career. South American football expert Tim Vickery noted that going to Saudi Arabia may leave him fresher for the World Cup, as he’s Uruguay’s cutting edge with a very good international record.
This consideration could prove decisive in Nunez’s final decision, as he balances immediate club success with long-term international ambitions.
Impact on Liverpool’s Transfer Strategy
Darwin Nunez’s departure would provide Liverpool with substantial funds to pursue their primary target, Alexander Isak. The Reds have already seen an initial bid of £110 million plus add-ons rejected by Newcastle, with the Magpies valuing the striker at £150 million.
The successful completion of the Darwin Nunez deal could accelerate Liverpool’s return to the negotiating table with Newcastle, potentially creating a domino effect in the transfer market.
Read More: Eintracht Frankfurt Sign Winger Ritsu Doan from Freiburg in €22M Deal
FAQs
How much will Al Hilal pay for Darwin Nunez?
Al Hilal will pay Liverpool €53 million guaranteed plus add-ons that could increase the total fee to €65 million (£56.6 million). This represents a significant investment but falls short of Liverpool’s original €75 million outlay.
Why is Darwin Nunez leaving Liverpool?
Nunez is leaving due to limited playing time under Arne Slot, scoring only 7 goals in 47 appearances last season. Liverpool’s signing of Hugo Ekitike and pursuit of Alexander Isak signals their intention to reshape their attack without the Uruguayan.
What role will Simone Inzaghi play in this transfer?
Inzaghi has been the driving force behind Al Hilal’s pursuit of Darwin Nunez. The Italian coach, who became the world’s highest-paid manager upon joining Al Hilal, sees Nunez as crucial to his 3-5-2 tactical system.
How will this affect Darwin Nunez’s World Cup chances?
Moving to Saudi Arabia could actually benefit Nunez’s international prospects, as reduced Premier League intensity might keep him fresher for the World Cup. He remains Uruguay’s primary striker with an excellent international scoring record.
When will the transfer be completed?
While a verbal agreement exists between clubs and Darwin Nunez has agreed personal terms, final paperwork and medical tests remain. The transfer could be completed during Al Hilal’s training camp in Germany, allowing Nunez to integrate quickly with his new teammates.
