EXCLUSIVE: Darwin Núñez Edges Closer to Al Hilal Move After Liverpool Agreement – Final Decision Rests With Player
In a stunning turn of events that could mark a major shift in the transfer landscape, Al Hilal are reportedly closing in on a sensational deal to bring Darwin Núñez to the Saudi Pro League. Sources have confirmed that a verbal agreement between Al Hilal and Liverpool is already in place, with the two clubs finalizing the terms of the transfer. Now, all that remains is for Núñez himself to agree on personal terms — and the final decision lies squarely in the hands of the Uruguayan striker.
The potential deal, if completed, would be one of the most high-profile Premier League departures to Saudi Arabia in 2025. It would also mark a bold statement of intent from Al Hilal, who continue to assert themselves as a dominant force in the Saudi Pro League and a major player on the global transfer stage.
Club-to-Club Agreement Complete
According to sources close to the negotiations, Liverpool and Al Hilal have reached a full verbal agreement on the transfer fee for Núñez. While the exact numbers have yet to be confirmed officially, early reports suggest a figure in the region of €85–90 million has been agreed upon — a sizable offer that matches Liverpool’s expectations for the forward, who was signed from Benfica for a similar amount in 2022.
This agreement marks a significant milestone in the deal, as Liverpool had previously been reluctant to let go of Núñez without a strong financial return. However, it’s understood that Jürgen Klopp’s recent departure and the tactical reshaping of the squad under new leadership made the Reds more open to selling the 25-year-old, especially after a mixed two-season spell at Anfield.
While Núñez has shown flashes of brilliance — including 18 goals and 13 assists in all competitions last season — his inconsistency, rawness, and emotional reactions during games have frustrated some fans and pundits alike. With Liverpool entering a new era, the club appears ready to cash in and reinvest in other areas of the squad.
Al Hilal Targeting a Marquee Signing
For Al Hilal, the pursuit of Núñez is a calculated move designed to strengthen their attacking firepower and broaden their international profile. Already boasting talents like Aleksandar Mitrović, Malcom, and Sergej Milinković-Savić, Al Hilal are looking to pair Núñez with their existing stars to form a formidable front line that can challenge for both domestic and continental honors.
The man behind the push for Núñez is none other than Simone Inzaghi, Al Hilal’s newly appointed head coach. The former Inter Milan boss reportedly views Núñez as the perfect striker to lead his attacking system — a player who combines physicality, pace, and an aggressive mentality, with the potential to become one of the top scorers in the Middle East.
Sources say that Inzaghi has been in constant contact with club executives and is personally involved in discussions to help convince Núñez that this is the right next step for his career.
The Player’s Decision: Will Núñez Say Yes?
Now that the clubs are aligned, attention has shifted to the player’s side of the negotiations. Núñez has not yet given a final answer, though talks over personal terms are ongoing, and initial conversations have been described as “constructive.”
The key factors in Núñez’s decision will likely revolve around:
- His role in the team: Al Hilal have assured the striker he would be the focal point of the attack and one of the faces of the club’s marketing and competitive ambitions.
- Financial package: The Saudi club is believed to be offering a lucrative salary — possibly in the region of €40 million per year — alongside image rights and sponsorship incentives.
- Career ambitions: At 25, Núñez still has time to make his mark in Europe, and it’s unclear if he feels ready to leave the Premier League behind. A move to Saudi Arabia at this stage could be seen as premature by some, but increasingly, high-profile stars are making that jump earlier in their careers.
Núñez has remained tight-lipped publicly, but insiders suggest he is seriously considering the offer. Liverpool have made it clear they won’t block the move if he agrees to the terms.
Implications for Liverpool
If the deal goes through, Liverpool would not only recoup most of the fee they paid Benfica for Núñez but also free up significant salary space. This would open the door for them to pursue another attacking option, potentially one more suited to the evolving tactical vision under Arne Slot.
Names like Victor Osimhen, Jonathan David, and Benjamin Šeško have already been floated as potential replacements, though Liverpool may also look internally to promote emerging talents such as Ben Doak or Kaide Gordon.
Final Steps
All eyes are now on Darwin Núñez. The project is laid out, the money is on the table, and the doors are open — both in Riyadh and at Anfield. If he gives the green light, the transfer could be completed swiftly, with medicals and formal announcements to follow soon after.
As it stands, Al Hilal are closer than ever to securing one of the biggest signings of the summer. The ball is now firmly in Darwin Núñez’s court.
Will he take the leap?
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