Napoli Confident in Darwin Nunez Chase as Liverpool Hold Out for Value

Napoli’s pursuit of Darwin Nunez has moved up a gear, with reports from Football Italia suggesting the Serie A champions are now “confident” of landing the Uruguayan striker. Under the direction of new manager Antonio Conte, Napoli are looking to rebuild their forward line and believe Nunez is the ideal fit. While Liverpool remain publicly firm on their valuation, recent developments hint at increasing momentum in negotiations.

Conte’s Admiration and Napoli’s Long-Term Interest

Antonio Conte’s interest in Nunez is no secret. According to Football Italia, “Darwin Nunez has been a long-term transfer target for Antonio Conte’s Napoli, who remain confident of striking a deal with Liverpool for a fee below the €50m mark.” That confidence stems from discussions dating back as far as early May, with further contact made between Napoli and Nunez’s representatives in recent days.

“Football Italia understands that Napoli have already had Darwin’s availability after talks with his representatives three or four days ago.” The groundwork appears to be well under way, but the gap in valuation remains significant.

Liverpool’s Position on Nunez Remains Firm

Liverpool’s asking price of £70 million has been consistent since January, when a bid from Saudi club Al-Nassr was rejected. That offer matched the current valuation, indicating that the Reds were not prepared to let Nunez leave cheaply mid-season. Now, despite his struggles under Arne Slot in the 2024–25 campaign, Liverpool are still holding firm.

Nunez scored just seven goals in 47 appearances last season, and his last start came in March. He was overtaken by both Luis Diaz and Diogo Jota in Slot’s forward rotation. Nevertheless, Liverpool are not allowing sentiment or short-term form to dictate transfer decisions.

The Uruguayan forward still has three years remaining on his contract, and Liverpool are keen to protect their position even if it means waiting out the market. “Liverpool’s firm stance on the transfer fee underscores their intent to maximize the return on their initial investment,” the original report noted.

Napoli’s €50m Ambition Unlikely to Succeed Without Compromise

Napoli’s belief that they can land Nunez for under €50 million (roughly £42 million) raises eyebrows given Liverpool’s consistent valuation. The idea that the Reds would accept a figure so far below January’s £70 million bid seems optimistic at best.

“It would be difficult to see Liverpool accepting 42m after having the opportunity to sell Nunez in January for the aforementioned £70m fee,” Football Italia rightly points out.

While Napoli may view Liverpool’s willingness to let go of a depreciating asset as an opening, the Anfield club are unlikely to roll over in negotiations. They may be open to a financial loss, but not a fire sale.

What Comes Next in the Transfer Dance

Liverpool are not expected to rush into a decision, particularly with Euro 2024 and Copa America impacting the summer calendar. While Napoli’s early positioning may help shape the market, it remains to be seen whether they can structure a deal that satisfies both sides.

Nunez’s departure seems inevitable, but the manner of his exit and the fee received will be a test of Liverpool’s resolve and Napoli’s negotiating acumen.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

The writing is clearly on the wall for Darwin Nunez. The effort has never been in doubt, but after three seasons and only 40 goals in 122 appearances, there’s a growing sense that this is simply not going to work out.

Arne Slot clearly has a system in mind and Nunez, who hasn’t started since March, just doesn’t appear to fit it. If Napoli want him and the player wants the move, then perhaps it’s time to shake hands and move on. But £42 million? That would feel like a poor bit of business after rejecting £70 million in January.

There’s also the risk of letting him go on the cheap only to see him flourish under Conte in Serie A. Yet, Liverpool cannot be held hostage by potential regret. If the money is reinvested wisely, particularly into a new striker who fits Slot’s pressing and movement-heavy system, then the club comes out stronger in the long run.

It’s the right time to sell, but not at any price.