Sources indicate that Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal is poised to submit an offer for Liverpool`s Darwin Nunez soon, identifying him as their top target for a new striker.
Liverpool reportedly values Nunez at approximately $80 million, aiming to recover a significant portion of the club-record $115.6 million they paid Benfica in 2022. This amount is well within the financial capacity of Al-Hilal, a Saudi Pro League team backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF). However, if completed, it would represent their second-highest transfer expenditure, surpassed only by their acquisition of Neymar two years prior.
AC Milan also shows interest in Nunez, having recently freed up substantial salary space due to departures including Tijani Reijnders, Theo Hernandez, and loanee Kyle Walker.
Initially, Al-Hilal`s top summer target was Victor Osimhen, who preferred a move back to Galatasaray. Benjamin Sesko was their subsequent preference. Discussions also occurred regarding Newcastle`s Alexander Isak, another PIF-owned asset, though both Osimhen and Isak are reportedly hesitant about a transfer to Saudi Arabia. If Nunez considers the offer – and he hasn`t ruled out a Pro League switch – he could command a yearly salary upwards of $35 million.
Since joining Liverpool three years ago, Nunez has often fallen short of the high expectations placed upon him. Last season, he played a relatively minor role in the team`s Premier League victory, making only eight starts. In 143 appearances for Liverpool, the 26-year-old forward has accumulated 40 goals and 26 assists.
A potential sale of Nunez would significantly bolster Liverpool`s finances, aiding their pursuit of Alexander Isak. Liverpool`s recent $146 million bid for Isak was rejected by Newcastle on Friday. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe admitted the `situation is far from ideal,` as his club is reportedly targeting Sesko as a potential replacement for Isak.
