Napoli Plot Shock Double Move for Liverpool Duo: What It Means for the Reds

Napoli Set Sights on Nunez and Chiesa

Napoli, fresh off their domestic success in Serie A, appear to be planning an ambitious transfer window—and Liverpool could find themselves right in the firing line. According to Alfredo Pedullà, writing in his Daily Briefing column, the Italian champions are eyeing a summer double swoop for Darwin Nunez and Federico Chiesa.

Napoli, now under the management of Antonio Conte, are building a squad designed to make waves both domestically and in Europe. The recent arrival of Kevin De Bruyne on a free transfer signals their intent. But Pedullà’s report that they are “looking for two wingers” and “actively searching” for a striker shines the spotlight firmly on Liverpool’s attacking depth.

Chiesa, who arrived at Anfield for £12.5 million last summer, is reportedly ready to call time on his Premier League spell. According to Pedullà, he “considers his English adventure over”, and Napoli remain interested after last summer’s preliminary links.

Nunez’s Anfield Future Hangs in the Balance

Darwin Nunez’s name in the rumour mill comes as less of a surprise. The Uruguayan has been the subject of regular scrutiny after joining Liverpool in a deal that could eventually rise to £85 million. Though he has managed 40 goals in 143 games, his return of just seven goals in 47 appearances last season has not met the expectations set by his price tag or pedigree.

Pedullà reports that Napoli “continue to hold a strong interest” in the forward and view him as potential competition—or even a replacement—for Romelu Lukaku. Whether Nunez can rediscover his best form in Serie A is another matter altogether.

Liverpool at a Crossroads with Squad Depth

Reports this week also suggest that Liverpool are open to offers for both Chiesa and Nunez. The duo were listed among three players whose futures are under review by the Anfield hierarchy. While neither player is indispensable, both could still serve important squad roles under Arne Slot, especially in a season where depth and rotation could be crucial.

Chiesa’s limited impact, having played the equivalent of just over five full matches in 2024/25, highlights his struggles to adapt. Meanwhile, Nunez’s erratic finishing and lack of composure in front of goal have become frustratingly familiar storylines.

What Napoli Could Offer (and Risk)

It remains to be seen how much game time either would actually see at Napoli. Chiesa would have to outshine Politano, Ngonge and Neres—who combined for just eight goals last season. Nunez would battle Lukaku for the No.9 role, making him anything but a lock-in starter. For both players, the move represents a gamble, not a guaranteed rebirth.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, the idea of letting both Nunez and Chiesa go this summer is divisive. While frustration with Nunez’s lack of clinical edge is understandable, the underlying stats often paint a more nuanced picture. His off-the-ball work rate, pressing, and ability to create chaos in the final third can’t be ignored.

As for Chiesa, it feels premature to cut ties after just one injury-riddled, disjointed season. The Italian has shown flashes of creativity and directness—qualities that could prove valuable in wide areas next term. Offloading him before giving him a real chance in a refreshed system seems wasteful.

Napoli’s interest is flattering, but Liverpool shouldn’t sell for anything less than top value. If these players do leave, the replacements must hit the ground running. Otherwise, the club risks losing not just depth, but two players who still have untapped potential to shine under the new manager.

Letting them go now may make financial sense—but we don’t want to weaken the forward line too much.