Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez appears increasingly likely to leave Anfield this summer after Napoli submitted a formal bid for the Uruguay international, intensifying speculation about his departure from the Premier League club.
Napoli have launched their first bid worth €55 million (£47m/$64m) for Liverpool forward Darwin Nunez as Antonio Conte looks to bolster his Serie A-winning squad. The Italian champions are considering the Uruguayan as a priority transfer target following extensive discussions between club officials.
According to multiple reports, Liverpool have received a €50M + €5M bid from Napoli for Darwin Núñez, as the Italian club also hold talks for a cheaper option in Lorenzo Lucca. However, negotiations have proven challenging, with Napoli reportedly still in conversations with Liverpool over the transfer of Darwin Nunez, but they have been unable to agree a fee that matches demands in excess of £55 million.
Player’s Position
The transfer appears to have gained momentum after Darwin Nunez is claimed to have now given Napoli the “green light” to push forward with talks over a transfer from Liverpool, who will be seeking a big fee. This development suggests the player is open to a move to Italy, marking a significant shift in the transfer negotiations.
Liverpool’s Stance
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Liverpool’s position reflects the reality of their investment in the striker. Having been signed from Benfica for a then club-record fee of £85 million, of which most has now been paid, the Uruguayan remains an important asset to the club. However, Liverpool are ready to part ways with Nunez this summer and re-invest in a new player.
The club’s asking price has been a sticking point in negotiations. Anfield chiefs are demanding €65m (£55.6m) up front, plus an additional €5m (£4.2m) in bonuses. This valuation is a big loss on their initial investment, but reflects the current market conditions and the player’s situation at the club.
Nunez’s Liverpool Struggles
The 25-year-old striker has faced challenges adapting to life at Anfield, particularly under new manager Arne Slot. He started just one of Liverpool’s last 21 Premier League matches during the latter part of the season, highlighting his diminished role in the team’s plans.
The 25-year-old was a key player for the Reds under previous manager Jurgen Klopp but has struggled to maintain his form and consistency under the new regime, leading to speculation about his future.
Alternative Options
While Napoli remains the frontrunner, other clubs have shown interest. TWO Premier League clubs are considering moves for the Uruguayan international, though specific names have not been disclosed. Additionally, there have been reports of interest from Saudi Arabian clubs, though the player appears to prefer remaining in European football.
Liverpool’s potential willingness to accept a big loss on their investment shows the club’s pragmatic approach to squad management. Fichajes reports that the Merseyside outfit are considering allowing Nunez to leave on loan for the 2025/26 campaign, with an obligation to buy for around €40-45m (£34-38m), though this appears to be a fallback option if no permanent deal materializes.
With negotiations ongoing and the player reportedly open to the move, a resolution to Darwin Nunez’s future could come soon. There is an acceptance that Nunez will not be a Liverpool player after this summer, but a number of factors around a possible transfer remain unclear.
The transfer window remains open, and with both clubs seemingly committed to finding a solution, the coming weeks could prove decisive in determining whether Nunez will be playing his football at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium next season.
