Al Hilal have officially completed the signing of Uruguayan striker Darwin Núñez from Liverpool in a blockbuster €65 million transfer that makes him one of the highest-paid players in Saudi Arabian football history.
The 25-year-old forward has signed a three-year contract with the Saudi Pro League champions, ending his three-year stay at Anfield in a move that represents one of the summer’s most talked-about transfers.
Liverpool will receive €53 million as a fixed fee, with performance-related add-ons expected to take the total package to €65 million. The initial payment alone makes this one of the biggest departures from Anfield in recent years, though the Reds will make a loss on their original investment.
The Uruguayan international originally joined Liverpool from Benfica for an initial £64 million in summer 2022, with add-ons potentially taking that deal higher. Despite the financial loss, Liverpool have secured a good return for a player who struggled to find consistency during his time in England.
Al Hilal’s willingness to meet Liverpool’s valuation shows their determination to secure one of South America’s most promising strikers. The Saudi club view Núñez as a marquee signing capable of elevating their profile both domestically and internationally.
Player Contract and Salary Details
Núñez will earn approximately €15 million per year at Al Hilal, making him one of the best-paid players in the Saudi Pro League. The three-year deal provides financial security while offering Al Hilal a player entering his prime years.
The salary package reflects Al Hilal’s ambition to compete with Europe’s elite clubs for top talent. Núñez’s wages put him among the highest earners in Saudi football, alongside other high-profile international signings in the league.
Personal terms were never an obstacle once Al Hilal and Liverpool reached agreement on the transfer fee. The striker was attracted by the project at Al Hilal and the opportunity to be a central figure in their continued success.
Simone Inzaghi’s Influence
Al Hilal manager Simone Inzaghi personally pushed for Núñez’s signing, viewing the Uruguayan as the perfect addition to his attacking setup. The Italian coach made the striker his top target for the summer window, believing his pace and movement would suit Al Hilal’s tactical approach.
Inzaghi’s experience working with elite strikers during his time at Inter Milan convinced him that Núñez possesses the qualities needed to thrive in Saudi Arabian football. The manager’s endorsement proved crucial in convincing Al Hilal’s hierarchy to pursue the transfer aggressively.
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The relationship between player and manager was established during preliminary discussions, with Núñez impressed by Inzaghi’s tactical vision and plans for integrating him into the team structure.
Al Hilal’s Ambitious Project
The signing continues Al Hilal’s policy of attracting world-class talent to the Saudi Pro League. Núñez joins a growing list of high-profile players who have chosen Saudi Arabian football over traditional European destinations.
Al Hilal’s success in securing Núñez demonstrates the league’s increasing appeal to players at the peak of their careers. The combination of competitive salaries, ambitious projects, and improving infrastructure makes Saudi football an attractive proposition.
The club’s investment in Núñez also reflects their determination to maintain their position as the dominant force in Saudi Arabian football while competing effectively in Asian competitions.
International Implications
Núñez’s move to Saudi Arabia raises questions about his Uruguay career, though the striker remains committed to international football. His performances for Al Hilal will be closely monitored by Uruguay coaches ahead of future competitions.
The striker’s decision prioritizes club success and financial security while maintaining his international ambitions. Several players have successfully balanced Saudi Pro League careers with national team duties, providing a template for Núñez to follow.
His continued involvement with Uruguay could also help raise the profile of Saudi Arabian football on the international stage, benefiting both player and league.
Future Expectations
Núñez arrives at Al Hilal with expectations to deliver immediate impact in both domestic and continental competitions. His goal-scoring record and international experience make him a natural leader in Al Hilal’s attacking structure.
The striker’s adaptation to Saudi Arabian football will be closely watched, with success potentially attracting further high-profile signings to the league. His performances could influence other players’ decisions about potential moves to Saudi Arabia.
