Darwin Nunez’s tumultuous three-year stint at Liverpool appears destined for conclusion this summer. The 25-year-old striker, who cost the Reds a club-record £85 million from Benfica in 2022, finds himself surplus to requirements under manager Arne Slot. Despite helping Liverpool secure their second Premier League title in five years, Darwin Nunez managed just one league start in 2025.
The Uruguayan’s future has dominated transfer speculation across Europe. Italian champions Napoli have emerged as frontrunners for his signature, with manager Antonio Conte reportedly viewing Nunez as his “dream target”. Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano confirms that talks between the clubs will continue next week.
Slot’s Public Criticism Signals End of Nunez Era
Arne Slot’s patience with Nunez finally snapped earlier this year. The Dutch manager publicly criticised the striker’s work rate following disappointing performances against Wolves and Aston Villa. Slot stated he “can’t accept if a player doesn’t give everything” after witnessing Nunez’s subdued response to missing crucial chances.
The criticism marked a turning point in their relationship. Nunez was subsequently dropped from the squad entirely for Liverpool’s victory over Manchester City. His final Premier League start came in March against Southampton, where he scored once but failed to secure regular playing time thereafter.
Statistics reveal the extent of Darwin Nunez decline under Slot. The striker scored just five Premier League goals in 30 appearances during the 2024-25 season. This represented a significant drop from his 18-goal tally the previous campaign. His expected goals figure of 5.19 suggested his finishing remained consistent, but limited opportunities restricted his overall impact.
Transfer Window Speculation Intensifies
Napoli’s pursuit of Darwin Nunez has gathered momentum throughout June. The Serie A champions, who recently secured their fourth league title under Conte’s guidance, view the Uruguayan as essential to their Champions League ambitions. Italian media reports suggest Liverpool would accept offers around £50 million, significantly lower than their initial £75 million valuation.
The potential transfer package has attracted widespread attention. Reports indicate Liverpool initially proposed a straight swap involving Nunez and Federico Chiesa for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen. However, Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis rejected this proposal, demanding additional compensation of £17 million.
Nunez himself appears resigned to leaving Anfield. Following Liverpool’s title parade in late May, the striker posted what many interpreted as a farewell message on social media. His post simply read: “Unforgettable. Thank you, Liverpool”. Liverpool supporters immediately speculated whether this constituted his goodbye to the club.
Financial Implications Drive Liverpool’s Decision
Liverpool’s willingness to sell Nunez stems partly from financial considerations. The club has reportedly paid £76.8 million of his original transfer fee, with performance-related bonuses accounting for much of the remaining amount. Crucially, Liverpool strategically avoided triggering a £5 million appearance clause by limiting Nunez’s starts towards the season’s end.
Manager Slot denied knowledge of any such financial restrictions, but reports suggest the club deliberately managed Nunez’s playing time. This decision enabled Liverpool to minimise their total outlay whilst preparing for his eventual departure.
The Reds’ transfer strategy has evolved significantly since Slot’s appointment. The acquisition of Florian Wirtz for a British record £100 million demonstrates their commitment to technically gifted players. Nunez’s direct style appears incompatible with Slot’s more structured tactical approach.
International Setbacks Compound Nunez’s Troubles
Nunez’s difficulties extended beyond club football during 2024. The striker received a five-match international suspension following his involvement in crowd trouble during Uruguay’s Copa America semi-final defeat to Colombia. CONMEBOL fined him £20,000 alongside the lengthy ban, ruling him out of crucial World Cup qualifiers.
The incident highlighted Nunez’s temperamental nature, which has occasionally overshadowed his footballing ability. His explanation that players were “protecting their families” failed to mitigate the punishment. This suspension further complicated his already challenging relationship with Liverpool’s management.
Market Value Reflects Declining Stock
Current market valuations suggest Darwin Nunez transfer value has depreciated considerably. AiScore estimates his worth at £45 million, substantially below Liverpool’s original investment. This decline reflects both his reduced playing time and inconsistent performances over three seasons.
Liverpool entertained offers from Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal worth approximately £60 million in January. However, Nunez rejected this approach, preferring to remain in European football. His decision demonstrated continued ambition despite his struggles at Anfield.
What Next for Liverpool’s Record Signing?
The coming weeks will determine Nunez’s destination for the 2025-26 season. Napoli remain most likely to secure his services, though AC Milan and Atletico Madrid have also registered interest. Liverpool appear resigned to accepting a significant loss on their record purchase.
For Nunez, a fresh start represents his best opportunity to revive a stalling career. At 25, he retains sufficient time to fulfil his undoubted potential. Whether that occurs in Serie A or elsewhere, his Liverpool chapter appears destined to end this summer.
The striker’s departure would symbolise Liverpool’s evolution under Slot. Having secured the Premier League title with minimal contribution from their record signing, the Reds have demonstrated their capacity to succeed without him. Nunez’s exit would simply formalise what has already become apparent throughout the 2024-25 campaign.