Darwin Nunez’s Stance on Al-Hilal Switch Revealed as Saudi Pro League Side Plot Blockbuster Transfer for Liverpool Striker

What Happened With Darwin Nunez and the Al-Hilal Transfer Links?

Darwin Nunez may be preparing for a major career pivot as Saudi giants Al-Hilal circle with intent. According to a report by Foot Mercato, the Liverpool striker is not entirely closed off to the idea of joining the Saudi Pro League, with early conversations reportedly taking place between Al-Hilal officials and the player’s representatives.

Though Liverpool have not received a formal offer, the growing interest from the Gulf region has reignited debate around Nunez’s future at Anfield—especially following a mixed stint in Merseyside that hasn’t quite justified his record-breaking transfer fee.

The Bigger Picture: Has Darwin Nunez Lived Up to Expectations at Liverpool?

Darwin Nunez Liverpool 2024-25

When Liverpool forked out £85 million ($115 million) to bring Darwin Nunez from Benfica in 2022, expectations were sky-high. Physically imposing, blisteringly quick, and capable of spectacular moments, the Uruguayan forward was hailed as the next big thing.

Fast forward to 2025, and the numbers tell a story that’s as polarizing as Darwin Nunez’s playing style. Over three seasons, he has notched 40 goals and delivered 26 assists across all competitions. While these are far from poor stats, they’ve come wrapped in inconsistency, missed chances, and questions about his composure in front of goal.

With Jurgen Klopp’s departure and a new era beginning under Arne Slot, it’s not far-fetched to think Liverpool could listen to offers for a player who, while immensely talented, has yet to fully click in the Reds’ attacking system.

Why Al-Hilal and Why Now?

Al-Hilal are in the market for a marquee striker after failing to land Napoli forward Victor Osimhen, who reportedly snubbed their advances in favor of staying in Europe. With their initial target out of reach, attention swiftly turned to Darwin Nunez.

From Al-Hilal’s point of view, Darwin Nunez represents a significant coup—a proven international striker in his prime years, with top-level European and international experience. The Saudi Pro League has been relentless in its pursuit of global talent, and Nunez, with his flair and marketability, fits the bill perfectly.

What’s particularly noteworthy is that this isn’t just about football. The Saudi project is designed around branding, global reach, and influence, and Darwin Nunez checks a lot of those boxes.

Where Does Darwin Nunez Stand Personally?

Insiders close to the situation have suggested that while Darwin Nunez has not actively sought a move, he is “open” to the idea of joining Al-Hilal. That subtle nuance could prove critical. This is not a player pushing for the exit, but rather one willing to listen.

Nunez has had a complex relationship with Liverpool fans. Beloved for his effort and commitment but often criticized for his erratic finishing, the idea of a fresh start may appeal to him, particularly in a league where the pressure and spotlight are markedly different.

Moreover, with potentially lucrative financial terms on the table and a starring role in a team stacked with talent, the Saudi proposition might just be too tempting to ignore.

Did You Know? Darwin Nunez Is Not the Only Target to Have Emerged for Al-Hilal

While Darwin Nunez is firmly on Al-Hilal’s radar, he wasn’t the first. The club previously pursued Victor Osimhen, who has been on loan at Galatasaray this past season. However, the Nigerian forward made it clear he was not interested in a switch to the Middle East at this stage of his career.

That setback has seemingly cleared the path for Darwin Nunez to become the centerpiece of Al-Hilal’s next transfer window. The club has already shown willingness to spend big and could easily match or surpass the fee Liverpool paid Benfica in 2022, especially if they see the Uruguayan as a long-term pillar.

What Next for Darwin Nunez and Liverpool?

Darwin Nunez is currently on international duty and is expected to feature for Uruguay in their 2026 World Cup qualifier against Venezuela. However, there is growing speculation that the striker may have already played his final game in a Liverpool shirt.

With the Club World Cup, pre-season preparations, and the opening of the transfer window looming, the next few weeks could be decisive. Liverpool are yet to respond publicly, and it remains to be seen how new manager Arne Slot views Nunez’s role in the squad.

Slot, known for his tactical flexibility, might appreciate Nunez’s raw attributes. But he also might prefer a more consistent, clinical forward as he looks to implement his ideas at a club that demands immediate success.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Time for a Nunez-Al Hilal Union?

There are few transfers that make immediate sense for all parties involved, but this could be one of them. For Nunez, it’s a chance to reset and become a focal point. For Al-Hilal, it’s a marquee signing that signals ambition. For Liverpool, it might be an opportunity to recoup funds and reinvest in a more compatible forward.

While nothing is concrete yet, the signs are there. And in the ever-evolving world of modern football, deals like this can move fast. If the phone rings at Anfield with the right number on it, don’t be surprised if Darwin Nunez‘s next chapter begins far from the Premier League’s spotlight—under the desert sun of Riyadh.