Liverpool’s £70m Nunez Exit Collapses: What Next for the Reds?
Nunez Turns Down Al-Hilal
Liverpool’s hopes of recouping a significant transfer fee for Darwin Nunez have taken a major hit after the Uruguayan striker reportedly rejected a lucrative move to Al-Hilal. As reported by Corriere Dello Sport, the Saudi Arabian club had a £70 million offer lined up, only for the player to decline at the eleventh hour.
This development comes after previous interest from Al-Hilal in January, which Liverpool rebuffed due to the timing of the bid. With the Reds still chasing silverware at the time, they weren’t prepared to offload a key first-team figure mid-season. But expectations remained that Al-Hilal would return in the summer – particularly ahead of their appearance in the FIFA Club World Cup.
Instead, Nunez has now turned down the opportunity, with Corriere Dello Sport reporting Nunez will not be moving to Al-Hilal.
Europe Still the Preferred Destination
Despite previously being open to a Saudi switch in January, Nunez now appears more inclined towards staying in Europe. Atlético Madrid have emerged as a potential suitor, and their interest could reignite if Liverpool drop their valuation slightly.
However, the failed Saudi deal represents a setback. Saudi clubs, especially those like Al-Hilal, bring immense financial leverage to the table. Losing that kind of buyer in this market reduces the likelihood of Liverpool hitting their £70m asking price. Unless another Gulf club enters the fray without Club World Cup constraints, Liverpool may have to lower expectations.
What This Means for Liverpool’s Transfer Plans
The collapse of this transfer could have knock-on effects for Liverpool’s summer plans. With new head coach Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes aiming to reshape the squad, a £70m windfall would have gone a long way. Whether reinvested in a marquee signing or spread across multiple additions, that money is now in jeopardy.
Liverpool remain keen to part ways with Nunez this window. His inconsistency in front of goal, despite relentless work-rate and movement, has left many within the fanbase split on his long-term suitability. But his rejection of a high-value Saudi deal complicates matters.
Pressure Mounts to Find a Buyer
Without Al-Hilal’s millions, Liverpool must now navigate a tougher market. Unless European clubs are willing to spend close to the £70m mark, the Reds face a decision: lower the price or keep Nunez. Given the clear intent to move him on, the former looks increasingly likely.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
This news is a mixed bag. On the one hand, Darwin Nunez has become a cult figure – erratic, unpredictable, but undeniably energetic. His pace, pressing, and off-the-ball runs often create chaos were all endearing to the fan base, many were hoping Arne Slot could define the erratic forward.
But the club’s willingness to accept a £70m bid, had Nunez agreed, speaks volumes. The writing’s been on the wall: Liverpool want a more clinical finisher, someone who fits the tactical evolution underway. Slot’s system will likely require greater efficiency in front of goal, and Nunez’s wastefulness has too often undermined promising moves.
That said, fans will be concerned about losing a major source of transfer funds. If European sides like Atlético Madrid don’t match the Saudi offer, Liverpool might be stuck with a player they were actively trying to sell – never an ideal situation for squad harmony or the player’s mindset.
