Darwin Nunez to turn down ‘massive payday’ when leaving Liverpool
Darwin Nunez is expected to leave Liverpool this summer with several clubs registering their interest.
The Uruguayan made the switch from Benfica in 2022 but has struggled to live up to the £64 million price tag he arrived with.
Arne Slot’s team have already made clear their intention to strengthen in the summer transfer window, and are expected to pursue a new number nine.
Liverpool slap huge price tag on Nunez
After a season in which Nunez struggled for minutes on the pitch – and failed to impress when involved – Liverpool are not expected to recoup the money spent bringing the striker to England.
Interest is there from foreign leagues, however, with the striker’s impressive numbers in Portugal still retaining attraction.
Significantly, several clubs in Saudi Arabia have reportedly kept Nunez’s situation on their radars ahead of a possible move to the Saudi Pro League this summer.
While the 25-year-old’s reception to a move outside of Europe is unclear, the collection of clubs under the ownership of the Saudi Public Investment Fund all have considerable funds at their disposal.
And the Reds are keen to exploit this interest, according to Ben Jacobs.
The journalist reports that Liverpool have set a £59m valuation for any clubs interested in signing Nunez, with Atletico Madrid, among others, keen.
Nunez could be revitalised by European move
Amid the compilation of appalling misses tagged with Nunez’s name, it is easy to forget the prospect Liverpool were signing in 2022.
Nunez, 22 at the time, had torn up Liga Portugal, scoring 26 times for Benfica in just 28 appearances.
His contribution in the Champions League was impressive too.
A brace against Barcelona and two goals against Liverpool – well taken finishes that may well have been the deciding factor in Jurgen Klopp’s decision to bring the player to Anfield.
And it’s important to note that Nunez’s time on Merseyside has not been all bad.
The Uruguayan started regularly in the 2023/24 season, amassing 21 direct goal contributions in the Premier League, and an impressive 33 in all competitions.
At 25, Nunez has plenty more to offer to European football.
While Saudi Arabia will certainly present a sizable payday, perhaps the opportunity to disprove a disparaged reputation will prove more beneficial for the striker.