Newcastle United Eye Liverpool’s Darwin Nunez as Transfer Plans Shift
Newcastle United are stepping up efforts to strengthen their attack this summer, with eyes now turning towards Liverpool’s Darwin Nunez, who joined the Reds for £71 million back in 2022. According to a report by Sport Bild, the Magpies have pulled out of the race for Hugo Ekitike, the Eintracht Frankfurt striker long admired by Eddie Howe’s side.
Newcastle’s initial approach for Ekitike, reportedly worth £70 million, was turned down by Frankfurt, who are holding firm at a valuation closer to £85 million. Talks held in Austria this week between Newcastle and Ekitike’s representatives failed to bring the two clubs closer.
Interestingly, Sport Bild reports that Ekitike is now “close to joining Liverpool” as Arne Slot looks to add more firepower to the Anfield frontline. This has prompted Newcastle to shift their focus to other targets, notably Napoli’s Victor Osimhen and Liverpool’s own Darwin Nunez.
Darwin Nunez Struggles to Shine at Anfield
Nunez, 26, arrived at Liverpool with big expectations following his move from Benfica in the summer of 2022. However, despite flashes of brilliance, the Uruguay international has struggled to establish himself as a consistent starter, particularly under new manager Arne Slot.
Last season, Nunez scored only seven goals as Liverpool claimed the Premier League title in Slot’s debut campaign. It was a triumph for the club but a frustrating personal season for Nunez, who found himself on the fringes of the starting XI.
“The 26-year-old has failed to live up to expectations at Anfield since his transfer from Benfica in the summer of 2022, hence, a move away feels like the best option for all parties,” Sport Bild notes.
Eddie Howe Eyes New Firepower
With Hugo Ekitike slipping from their grasp, Newcastle are exploring all options. Sport Bild states, “Newcastle have pulled out of the race to sign Ekitike as he’s close to joining Liverpool. The Magpies are now exploring a move for Victor Osimhen and Darwin Nunez.”
While Alexander Isak remains Liverpool’s “no.1 target,” Newcastle have no intention of selling the Sweden international. Sources say Isak himself is open to an Anfield move, but the Magpies are determined to resist.
That leaves Nunez as a realistic target for Newcastle, who are determined to boost their European ambitions after last season’s solid campaign. With AC Milan and Saudi side Al-Hilal also interested in Nunez, the coming weeks promise to be fascinating as clubs position themselves for the Uruguayan’s signature.
What Next for Liverpool’s Attack?
For Liverpool, the potential arrival of Hugo Ekitike points to a refreshed attacking lineup under Arne Slot. It also signals the possible end of Nunez’s Anfield journey. As the Reds look to build on their title-winning season, fans will be keen to see how Slot reshapes his squad, especially up front.
With Ekitike’s 22 goals in 48 games last season and Champions League experience, he offers promise and flexibility. Whether Nunez can find his spark elsewhere remains to be seen, but a move to Newcastle could provide the change of scene he needs.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, this report from Sport Bild triggers mixed emotions. Darwin Nunez has been a player we all wanted to succeed, with his raw pace, aggressive pressing and eye for goal. But under Arne Slot, who led us to the Premier League title in his very first season, it is clear Nunez has slipped down the pecking order.
Slot seems keen on players who combine technical sharpness with positional discipline, something Nunez has sometimes struggled with. Bringing in Hugo Ekitike, who had a stellar season at Frankfurt, could freshen up the front line and provide the kind of profile Slot prefers.
What’s particularly interesting is Newcastle’s stance on Alexander Isak. The fact they are determined to keep him despite his own openness to an Anfield move shows just how highly he is valued in the Premier League. For Liverpool, prising him away might require an audacious bid, but with Nunez potentially offloaded, there could be room for that.
For fans, seeing Nunez go to another English club like Newcastle will sting slightly. There is always the fear he will explode into form elsewhere. But realistically, with offers from AC Milan and Al-Hilal on the table too, it feels like his chapter at Liverpool is nearing its end. All eyes are now on how Slot shapes his squad for the Champions League and title defence ahead.
