Milan’s Pursuit of Nunez Signals Intent

AC Milan have taken the first steps in a bold move to sign Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez, according to a report by Sky Sports Italy. The Rossoneri are actively searching for a new centre forward and have made contact with the Uruguayan, who remains their top priority this summer.

“Negotiations to bring Darwin Nunez to Milan remain complicated, but the Rossoneri have already spoken with the Uruguayan,” as per Sky Sports Italy. The 25-year-old, who scored 22 goals in all competitions last season under Arne Slot, has not officially asked to leave Anfield, but there are signs Milan believe an opportunity exists.

Massimiliano Allegri is reportedly keen to shape Milan’s attack around a physically dominant and mobile striker. Despite having alternatives on their shortlist such as Arnaud Kalimuendo, Dusan Vlahovic and Rasmus Hojlund, Nunez remains the club’s preferred option.

Saudi Interest Grows but Milan Push First

While AC Milan are setting the pace, Al Hilal from Saudi Arabia are also in the picture. Their interest, however, has yet to materialise into a formal proposal.

“Al-Hilal are also interested in the player, but they haven’t yet submitted an official offer, although they remain vigilant.” It’s a line that signals the shifting landscape of the transfer market, particularly with Saudi clubs increasingly eyeing European stars in their mid-20s.

Liverpool, on the other hand, are yet to receive any offers that match their valuation of Nunez, who joined the club from Benfica in 2022. Sources close to the club suggest it would take an extraordinary bid to tempt them to part ways with the player so soon after his resurgence under Slot.

Slot’s Tactical Evolution at Play

Under Arne Slot, Nunez has evolved in his role. Once considered a chaotic presence in the box, the Uruguayan showed signs of maturity and better decision-making last season. His movement has improved, he’s pressing more intelligently, and there’s greater cohesion with the likes of Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah.

Whether Slot views Nunez as indispensable will be key. While Liverpool are not actively shopping the forward, the emergence of new signings and tactical flexibility could, in theory, allow the club to consider reinvestment if a large fee arrives.

Milan Face Stiff Challenge to Land Their Main Target

Sporting director Geoffrey Moncada is said to be driving Milan’s push. “Kalimuendo, Vlahovic, and Hojlund are also on the list, but for the Rossoneri sporting director, the Uruguayan is the number one target.”

That admiration is clear, but Liverpool’s negotiating stance and Premier League status present major hurdles. Milan are not operating at the same financial level as English clubs or Saudi-backed organisations, which may ultimately price them out.

This transfer story is likely to run deep into August, but Milan’s intent is real, and so is the competition.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool fans, this interest in Darwin Nunez is both flattering and frustrating. After a turbulent start, the Uruguayan finally looked settled under Arne Slot last season. His pace, relentless running and link-up play showed genuine signs of growth. Why let him go now?

Some fans might argue that his finishing still lacks polish, and his off-the-ball awareness needs work, but there’s no doubting his passion and potential. Selling Nunez this summer, particularly after winning the league, could feel like taking a step backwards just when continuity is most crucial.

Then again, every player has a price. If Milan or Al Hilal offer £80 million or more, reinvesting that into a versatile attacker or midfield depth could be smart business. But it must be on Liverpool’s terms. Not Milan’s, not Saudi Arabia’s.

Ultimately, this feels more like Milan making noise than Liverpool listening. If Nunez starts the 2025-26 season in red, few fans will complain. But if he leaves, it must be part of a much bigger plan.