A key Liverpool player is reportedly getting closer to leaving the club, with one major factor playing a role in his choice between two potential destinations. Meanwhile, the club’s owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), are expected to cash in on his departure.
Liverpool has been proactive in the transfer market, already securing Jeremie Frimpong and Armin Pecsi, while deals for Florian Wirtz and Milos Kerkez are reportedly close. This follows a successful season in which new manager Arne Slot guided the Reds to a Premier League title, relying largely on the squad built by Jurgen Klopp, with Federico Chiesa as the only major addition in 2024/25.
Slot has now been given significant financial backing to reshape the squad further. More signings are expected, and to fund these moves, Liverpool is also preparing to offload players. Among the expected departures is Darwin Nunez, whose time at the club has not met expectations.
Signed for £64 million under Klopp—despite data suggesting caution—Nunez has struggled to make a consistent impact. Last season, he made just eight league starts, falling behind other forwards in the pecking order.
Liverpool turned down a January approach from Saudi side Al Nassr due to their title push but are now open to selling. According to Football Insider, Nunez’s exit is becoming increasingly likely, with Atletico Madrid and Al-Hilal emerging as the leading contenders for his signature.
Reporter Pete O’Rourke claims that Al-Hilal is particularly motivated to sign a striker after failing to secure Victor Osimhen, and sees Nunez as a marquee option ahead of the Club World Cup.
“Liverpool is open to selling Nunez, who doesn’t fit into Arne Slot’s tactical plans,” O’Rourke explained. “While Al-Hilal leads the race, other Saudi clubs and European teams—particularly Atletico Madrid—are also in the mix.”
The Reds are reportedly holding out for the best offer to reinvest in new signings, with Nunez’s future seemingly set to lie away from Anfield. The final decision may come down to whether he chooses a move to the Saudi Pro League or remains in Europe.
