Darwin Nunez exit gains speed at Liverpool after latest Hugo Ekitike update
Darwin Nunez has been heavily linked with a move away from Liverpool this summer after an inconsistent 2024/25 campaign.
The Uruguayan has struggled at Anfield throughout his three-year stint, and it now appears that he could have played his last competitive game in a Liverpool shirt.
Nunez has been linked with moves to Napoli and Saudi Arabian clubs this summer, with the Reds looking to recoup some of the money they have spent on the forward.
Hugo Ekitike’s arrival on Merseyside has pushed the 26-year-old down the pecking order with the Reds, and the latest update from Anfield could mean the writing is on the wall for Liverpool’s current number nine.
Ekitike given temporary squad number
Arne Slot has been quick to move on from last season’s squad this summer, bringing in Jeremie Frimpong to replace Trent Alexander Arnold and even Milos Kerkez as a potential Andy Robertson replacement.
The Reds are now looking to move on quickly from Nunez, with Ekitike now assigned the temporary squad number 54.
| Stat | Hugo Ekitike |
| Appearances | 48 |
| Goals | 22 |
| Assists | 12 |
Ekitike scored 15 goals in the Bundesliga for Frankfurt last season, 11 goals behind top-scorer Harry Kane.
It’s widely expected that Liverpool will wait for Nunez to depart before giving their French striker a more permanent squad number in the prestigious number nine.
Ekitike travelled to Merseyside to undergo a medical this week before being announced as Slot’s sixth summer signing.
The transfer took their total spend this summer to more than £200million, with the Reds hoping they have found the perfect out-and-out striker after rotating their front three last season.
Slot rightfully being brutal at Liverpool
Nunez’s inevitable departure from Anfield is the latest sign of Slot’s needed brutality.
For years, the Reds haven’t added good enough depth and competition to the squad, which has left Liverpool regulars too comfortable.
Now, Liverpool have no excuse next season and can push on to win back-to-back Premier League titles.
With Ibrahima Konate and Luis Diaz’s futures still uncertain, Slot could again show his brutal side before the end of the transfer window.
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