Liverpool have reportedly rejected a substantial £70m bid from Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal for Uruguay striker Darwin Nunez.
Speculation surrounding the forward’s future has been rife in recent days, with the Saudi side touted as serious suitors for his signature.
Early reports linked Núñez with a move to AC Milanwho were believed to be exploring a loan deal with an option to buy for €45m. However, Al-Hilal have since entered the race, preparing a staggering financial package to lure the striker to the Middle East.
According to reportsAl-Hilal’s offer includes a proposed weekly wage of £400,000, more than double Núñez’s current £140,000-a-week earnings at Liverpool. That staggering figure would eclipse Mohamed Salah’s £350,000-a-week wages, the highest in Liverpool’s history.
Although Núñez prefers to stay in European football, the financial lure of the Saudi league has kept the door open to a possible move.
Liverpool reject a massive bid for Darwin Núñez
Anfield Watch has now broken the news that the Merseyside giants have rejected a £70m bid from Al-Hilal for Darwin Nunez, with Liverpool valuing the player at close to £85m.
According to the report, Liverpool could consider a £75m deal, with Michael Edwards overseeing negotiations.
Is Darwin Núñez’s time at Liverpool about to end?
Since joining Liverpool from Benfica in 2022 for a club-record fee of £85m, Núñez’s tenure has been marked by inconsistency.
In his debut season in the Premier League, he scored just nine goals in 29 league appearances. His second season showed improvement, with 11 goals and eight assists in 36 games in all competitions.
Despite flashes of brilliance, Nunez’s wastefulness in front of goal and erratic performances have left fans frustrated despite being a firm fan favorite at Anfield.
Under new manager Arne Slot, the Uruguayan has struggled to secure a regular starting role and has fallen to Diogo Jota and, more recently, Luis Diaz, who has thrived in a false-nine role.
It remains to be seen whether the Saudis come back with an improved offer and whether Liverpool are willing to sell him mid-season with the Reds playing in every competition, and in a good place to win at least silverware if not more.
Despite his inconsistent form, letting him go in the middle of such a big season could prove to be a big gamble.
